Core beliefs as predictors of mental toughness amongst competitive adolescent tennis players

[摘要] English: Research interest in mental toughness (MT) has increased significantly over the past decade. Numerous theories regarding the nature and development of MT have been proposed, however, no attempt appears to have been made to explore the cognitive behavioural mechanisms that might underpin MT. Consequently, this study aims to investigate whether core beliefs, as defined from within a Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) perspective, are predictive of MT. To this end, a convenience sample of 134 competitive adolescent tennis players aged between 14 and 19 years (M = 15.57; 46.3% female) was recruited and asked to complete measures of MT and core beliefs. Rational beliefs were positively correlated with MT, while irrational beliefs were generally negatively correlated with MT. Moderated hierarchical regression analyses revealed that level of competition moderated the relationship between core beliefs and the control component of MT. The results of the hierarchical regression analyses indicated that while rational beliefs failed to predict a significant proportion of the variance in the sample's MT, irrational beliefs did emerge as a significant predictor of MT. Irrational beliefs were negatively associated with self-confidence and control. At the level of specific irrational beliefs, demand for achievement and need for approval were predictive of control among the less accomplished players in the sample. These forms of irrational thinking were also negatively associated with control among these participants. Self-downing beliefs predicted determination and positive cognition in the total sample. Self-downing was negatively correlated with these particular components of MT. Other-downing also emerged as a predictor of positive cognition. Moreover, this irrational belief was negatively associated with positive cognition. vi The study suggests that certain core beliefs are predictive of MT amongst competitive adolescent tennis players. Irrational beliefs appear to be a statistically and practically significant predictor of various aspects of MT in this population. These findings suggest that REBT is a suitable perspective from which to conceptualise the cognitive behavioural mechanisms involved in MT. Furthermore, REBT-based interventions may have utility in the development and maintenance of MT among adolescent athletes.

[发布机构] University of the Free State