Effects of Self-Management Behavior of Closed Sports Athletes on Concentration and Competition State Anxiety

Abstract

Athletes are required to strive to demonstrate their best performance not only in physical training but also in mental toughness. This study aims to understand the effects of self-management behaviors of athletes competing in closedskill sports on maintaining concentration and resolving competition state anxiety. An offline survey was conducted with 301 participants, shooting athletes selected using convenience sampling. This questionnaire consists of 14 items, and 11 sub-factors. All items were measured using a five-point Likert scale (1 = not at all, 5 = very much). Results revealed that self-management behaviors (training, mental power, interpersonal, intrinsic, and physical management) have significant positive effects on athletes' concentration (attention, confidence, immersion, and goal setting). Additionally, self-management behaviors (training and mental power) positively affect competition state anxiety (somatic and cognitive). The results of this study confirm that managing athletes' mental health could play an important role in the concentration and anxiety that affect athletic performance. This study provides important data for athletes who need to demonstrate their best performance in competitions. © 2023 Montenegrin Sports Academy. All rights reserved.