The Relationship between Mental Toughness and Sports Performance Perception among Secondary School Athletes: A Cross-sectional Analysis

Abstract

Mental toughness has emerged as a crucial determinant of athletic success, yet its relationship with performance perception among developing athletes remains understudied. This investigation examines the relationship between mental toughness and sports performance perception among secondary school athletes (N = 300) in Malaysia's Sepang district. Utilizing a quantitative cross-sectional design, the study employed the Sports Mental Toughness Questionnaire (SMTQ) and Sports Performance Perception Scale (SPPS) to assess these constructs. Results revealed significantly low levels of mental toughness across all subscales (confidence: M = 3.16, SD = 0.48; toughness: M = 2.82, SD = 0.50; control: M = 2.91, SD = 0.61) and demonstrated a weak positive correlation between mental toughness and sports performance perception (r = 0.20, p < .05). These findings suggest a critical need for structured psychological interventions in school sports programs and contribute to our understanding of psychological factors influencing youth athletic development.