Psycho-Educational Factors in Athletes' Performance and Interpersonal Relationships
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.57125/FS.2025.06.20.05Keywords:
gymnast’s psychology, interpersonal relationship, coaching, personality characteristics, educational programsAbstract
In the modern era, psychology holds an increasingly vital role in athlete preparation. Its principles are widely integrated across social practices, especially sports. Psychological strategies significantly influence performance. Therefore, exploring psychology’s role in addressing diverse training challenges remains a key concern in contemporary athletic development and competitive success. The study aimed to examine how psychological factors and interpersonal relationships affect gymnasts' success, focusing on achievement motivation, mental states, and team dynamics through quantitative and qualitative analysis methods. An observational study was conducted using surveys administered to 110 gymnasts based in Baku. Quantitative and qualitative methods were employed to analyze the impact of interpersonal relationships on performance. Data were processed using SPSS 26 to ensure reliability. Ethical approval was obtained, and informed consent was secured from all participants. The study analyzed psychological and interpersonal factors among 110 gymnasts aged 7–25 (87.8% female). Achievement motivation levels were predominantly high (49.1%) or extreme (27.3%), with an average score of 18.56. Mental states exhibited moderate aggression (M = 9.42) and rigidity (M = 9.27), while anxiety (M = 8.69) and frustration (M = 6.98) were lower. Significant positive correlations existed among anxiety, frustration, aggression, and rigidity (p<0.01). A negative correlation was found between achievement motivation and anxiety (r = –0.234, p < 0.001), as well as between motivation and negative interpersonal relationships (r = –0.185, p = 0.006). Additionally, increased negative interpersonal attitudes were strongly linked with higher anxiety and aggression levels (r>0.63, p=0.000). The study concludes that high achievement motivation and positive interpersonal relationships significantly enhance gymnasts' performance, while anxiety and negative team dynamics hinder it. This study provides novel insights into the psychological profiles of gymnasts in Azerbaijan, an underexplored context. Addressing psychological well-being and fostering supportive environments is crucial for optimizing athletic success and emotional resilience.
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