Exploring the Link between Athletic Identity, Self-compassion, Communication, and Mental Toughness of Table Tennis Student-Athletes
Journal Title: International Journal of Racket Sports Science - Year 2021, Vol 3, Issue 1
Abstract
Table tennis student-athletes should be mentally tough as they train and perform under extreme pressure. It is essential to identify other mental skills that will aid mental toughness development. Accordingly, the study focused on assessing athletic identity, self-compassion, and intra-team communication. The relationship between the constructs was also explored. A multi-part questionnaire was fielded to 230 college student-athletes participating in table tennis singles event. Findings indicate high levels of athletic identity and intra-team communication among the participants; while moderate levels for self-compassion and mental toughness. Structural equation modeling revealed the dynamic relationship between the constructs. On one hand, self-compassionate participants who highly recognize their role as athletes, and communicate with the team are more mentally tough. On the other hand, uncompassionate self-responding lead student-athletes to become mentally weak. The study provides useful insights for practitioners in designing mental skills training geared towards optimal functioning and psychological wellness of young athletes.
Authors and Affiliations
Maridette Joyce D. Maranan, Dr. Arnulfo Lopez
Scoring bias caused by services in table tennis: a statistical analysis
In table tennis, servers have the potential advantage of scoring bias when serving. However, the length of the scoring bias, i.e. the shot number where any bias is eliminated, has not been clarified. This study aimed to...
Are Technical and Timing Components in Para-Badminton Classifications Different?
Considering the reduced amount of studies with Para-Badminton (PBd) and the need to understand the technical, tactical and functional classes, the purpose of this research is to investigate the frequency of technical com...
A Literature Review on Coach-Athlete Relationship in Table Tennis
Coach-athlete relationship is a salient factor in table-tennis as it impacts players’ performance and well-being. The structure and set up in table tennis is often designed so the players and coaches are working together...
Serve analyses of elite European table tennis matches
The purpose of this study was to analyze the serve activities of elite European table tennis players. Twenty matches (78 games, 1466 points) of semifinal and final German League and Europe TOP 16 in men’s (in the top 30...
Is the level of eye-hand coordination and executive functioning related to performance in para table tennis players? – An explorative study
The goal of this explorative study was to explore whether eye-hand coordination and executive functions (i.e. cognitive flexibility, attention control and information processing) are related to the performance level in p...