Modeling the Relationship Between Attachment Styles and Narcissistic Personality Traits in Athletes: The Mediating Role of Interpersonal Problems

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 MS in Counseling, Department of Counseling, Qom Branch, Islamic Azad University, Qom, Iran.

2 Department of Counseling, Saveh Branch, Islamic Azad University, Saveh, Iran.

Abstract

Purpose: The present study aimed to model the mediating role of interpersonal problems in the relationship between attachment styles and narcissistic personality traits among athletes.
Methods: The research method was descriptive-correlational, and the study had an applied purpose. The statistical population consisted of all athletes residing in Tehran. The sample included 250 participants who were selected via convenience sampling. The research instruments included the Narcissistic Personality Questionnaire, the Adult Attachment Scale, and the Inventory of Interpersonal Problems. Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling.
Results: The results indicated that the indirect path coefficient between the avoidant attachment style (β=0.169, P<0.01) and the anxious attachment style (β=0.110, P<0.01) with narcissistic personality traits was significantly positive and statistically significant at the 0.01 level.
Conclusion: The findings suggest that attention to interpersonal problems and insecure attachment styles plays an important role in identifying and understanding the development of narcissistic traits. Therefore, designing psychological interventions focused on improving interpersonal skills and emotion regulation may help reduce interpersonal difficulties and promote athletes’ mental health.
 

Keywords

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Sports Psychology
Volume 15, Issue 2
2023
Pages 270-286

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History

  • Receive Date: 29 May 2022
  • Revise Date: 20 October 2022
  • Accept Date: 01 February 2023

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