Comparative study on sports anxiety irrespective of gender differences among badminton and tennis players

Abstract

This study aimed to assess sport anxiety among athletes, taking into account gender differences and the specific sport practiced. The sample consisted of 100 participants who were selected based on their representation at the national level in tennis and badminton. The Sports Competition Anxiety Test (SCAT) questionnaire was administered to measure anxiety levels. Independent t-tests were conducted to compare anxiety levels between males and females in their respective sports, with a significance level set at 0.05. The statistical analysis revealed that females exhibited higher levels of anxiety compared to males. These findings confirm that women are more prone to anxiety than men. It was observed that girls' employment of thought control strategies and metacognitive beliefs contributes to their susceptibility to emotional and neurotic problems. Therefore, it is crucial for girls to acquire alternative strategies for coping with challenging situations. The study suggests that females may benefit from learning techniques to manage metacognitive worries. Additionally, modifying negative and positive metacognitive beliefs about worry can contribute to improved mental well-being. In conclusion, this study provides evidence that female athletes experience higher levels of anxiety compared to their male counterparts. It highlights the significance of addressing mental health concerns among female athletes and emphasizes the need to teach them effective strategies for managing anxiety. By promoting the development of adaptive metacognitive skills and modifying their beliefs about worry, girls can enhance their psychological resilience and overall mental health.