Relationship between Talent Development Environment with Mental Toughness among Athletes

Authors

1 P.hD. Student in motor behaviour, Departmentof Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran.

2 Associate Professor of Motor Behavior, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran.

3 Assistant Professor of Physical Education, Karbala, Iraq.

Abstract

 
Purpose: The talent development environment plays a crucial role in helping athletes achieve their full potential and mental toughness. Understanding which aspects of the talent development environment best promote mental toughness is essential for coaches and athletes. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the psychological characteristics of the talent development environment - specifically the five factors outlined in the Arabic language - and their relationship with mental toughness among athletes.
Methods: The study involved 682 athletes ranging in age from 13 to 21 years old, who were selected from the talent development programs of the Iraqi National Sports Institute. The research utilized the Talent Development Environment Questionnaire (TDEQ5) and the Mental Toughness Inventory (MTI). Structural validity was evaluated through exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, while convergent validity, discriminant validity, and predictive validity were assessed using regression analysis. Reliability was measured using Cronbach's alpha, split-half reliability, and composite reliability. Cluster analysis was used for sample grouping, and analysis of variance was employed for group comparisons.
Results: The results indicated that the Arabic Talent Development Environment Questionnaire-5 is a valid and reliable tool for use in Arabic-speaking cultures. Furthermore, certain features of the talent development environment were found to predict mental toughness.
Conclusion: Therefore, the Talent Development Environment Questionnaire should be considered for enhancing the mental toughness of talented athletes.
 

Keywords

References

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History

  • Receive Date: 10 May 2021
  • Revise Date: 03 September 2021
  • Accept Date: 06 December 2021

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