Exploring coping mechanisms in managing competitive state anxiety among selected combat sports athletes in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Combat sports athletes face unique psychological challenges, including increased cognitive and somatic anxiety and fluctuations in self-confidence. This study aimed to explore how female combat sports athletes manage CSA through coping mechanisms linked to their individual personality traits. A mixed-method approach was employed, involving (n=40) athletes from four combat sports. Participants first completed quantitative assessments based on the big five personality traits test and CSA questionnaire to assess their personality profiles and types of CSA. Based on quantitative results, (n=10) athletes with elevated anxiety levels and personality traits were selected for semi-structured interviews to explore their coping mechanisms and experiences. Findings highlighted three coping mechanisms: problem-focused, emotion-focused, and avoidance-focused strategies, with choices varying by personality. Neurotic athletes experiencing somatic anxiety relied on self-talk, relaxation, mindfulness, and superstition. Conscientious athletes managed cognitive anxiety through journaling, planning, and mental rehearsal. Extraverts used social coping, drawing on peers and mentors. Agreeable athletes emphasized collaboration, expression, and team cohesion for somatic anxiety. Openness athletes employed visualization, creative expression, and varied training methods. Results show coping strategies are personality-dependent, with some mechanisms better suited to cognitive or somatic anxiety. These insights highlight the need for tailored psychological support to optimize performance in combat sports.