MENTAL

Background/Purpose of Study: Stroke remains a leading cause of long-term disability worldwide, often resulting in upper extremity dysfunction that limits independence. Rehabilitation strategies such as Mental Imagery (MI) and the Graded Repetitive Arm Supplementary Program (GRASP) have been developed to enhance motor recovery. This study evaluated the comparative and combined effectiveness of MI and GRASP on upper extremity function in stroke survivors. Methods: A total of forty-eight (48) stroke survivors were randomly assigned into four groups of twelve participants each: Mental Imagery (MI), GRASP, combined MI + GRASP, and a control group. The intervention lasted for eight weeks and was conducted at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital. The Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) was used to assess upper extremity function pre- and post-intervention. Data were analyzed using one-way Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA), and post-hoc comparisons were performed with Bonferroni correction at a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: The results revealed that the MI group showed no significant improvement in upper extremity function compared to the control. However, participants in the GRASP and MI + GRASP groups demonstrated statistically significant improvements in grasp, grip, pinch, and gross movement components of the ARAT. The GRASP group showed the most notable gains, followed by the combined intervention group. Conclusion: The findings suggest that GRASP, alone or in combination with Mental Imagery, enhances upper extremity function in stroke survivors, while Mental Imagery alone may not produce measurable benefits within an eight-week period. These results support the inclusion of structured GRASP protocols, with or without imagery practice, in stroke rehabilitation to improve upper limb recovery.

This study was designed to diagnose influence of mental toughness on the performance of student- athletes; in the university of Benin.. The purpose of the study was to investigate the influence of mental toughness on student- athletes; The study adopted survey research design. The study made use of questionnaire to obtain data from respondent. Five objectives were raised for the study. The study made use of questionnaire to obtain data from respondent. three objectives were raised for the study. The result showed that mental toughness significantly influences the performance of student-athletes. The study also showed a positive and statistically significant correlation implying that as mental toughness increases, so did performance indicators such as endurance, tactical execution, and competitive composure. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended among others that The University of Benin Sports Unit should formally integrate mental skills training into regular training programs for student-athletes. Techniques such as goal setting, visualization, positive self-talk, concentration drills, and stress-management strategies should be taught alongside physical and technical training to enhance mental toughness and overall athletic performance.