Question

Which roles in baseball does Gmelch identify as involving most rituals?

Answer 1

George Gmelch's study highlights that professional baseball players perform rituals to reduce anxiety and gain a sense of control, particularly when they face unpredictable situations or events deemed critical for success.

Step-by-step explanation:

George Gmelch, in his study of baseball magic, identifies that the roles in baseball that involve the most rituals are those of the professional athletes themselves. His research observed that these players engage in various rituals related to their everyday activities, such as the ways they eat, dress, and travel to the ballpark. Gmelch concluded that these rituals are similar to the ones observed by Malinowski among the Trobriand Islanders, in that they serve to reduce anxiety and foster a sense of control over situations perceived as less predictable and potentially more dangerous, or critical to success.

Answer 2

George Gmelch's research suggests that pitchers and hitters in baseball are the roles that involve the most rituals, which players believe contribute to their success and help manage anxiety.

Step-by-step explanation:

According to George Gmelch's study on rituals and their impact on the psychology of baseball players, he identifies the roles of pitchers and hitters as those that involve the most rituals in baseball.

Gmelch's research supports the view that baseball players may engage in specific rituals, such as unique eating habits, dressing routines, and even the way they travel to the ballpark.

These routines form a part of what Gmelch terms "baseball magic", which players believe contributes to their success and helps to manage anxiety, particularly in a sport where aspects like weather and chance play significant roles.