Profiling of Psychological States and Sports Performance among Competitive Karate Athletes

Abstract

This study investigated the psychological states and sports performance of 155 competitive karate athletes (n=73 female, 82 male), exploring the influence of mood, motivation, and anxiety level on participation level. A cross-sectional research design was employed, utilizing the Brunel Mood Scale (BRUMS), Participation Motivation Questionnaire (PMQ), and Competitive State Anxiety Inventory-2R (CSAI-2R) to assess psychological factors. Results indicated a moderate positive mood (vigor M = 2.72, SD = 0.93; fatigue M = 1.52, SD = 1.04), generally positive motivation (friendship M = 1.65, SD = 0.61), and moderate anxiety levels (cognitive anxiety M = 2.35, SD = 0.81; somatic anxiety M = 2.04, SD = 0.71), although self-confidence was high (M = 2.98, SD = 0.75). The mean participation level (4.57, SD = 1.49, scale: 1=Inter-tournament, 6=International) indicated highly competitive involvement. The objective of this study was to determine the level of psychological states and to examine the relationship between psychological states and sports performance among competitive karate athletes. The results revealed significant positive correlations between all three variables. Mood was significantly positively correlated with motivation (r = .569, p < .001) and anxiety level (r = .569, p < .001). This indicated that higher levels of positive mood were associated with greater motivation and higher levels of anxiety. Motivation was also significantly positively correlated with anxiety level (r = 1.000, p < .000). This strong positive correlation suggested that higher levels of motivation were directly associated with higher levels of anxiety. Maintaining optimal mental and physical well-being is crucial for athletic performance. Research has shown that factors such as mood, motivation, and anxiety can have a significant impact on an athlete's ability to perform at their best. These findings highlight the complex interplay of psychological factors influencing karate athletes and suggest avenues for interventions to optimize performance and well-being.