A1 Journal article (refereed)
Self-confidence, mental toughness, and psychobiosocial experiences in elite rugby players (2025)
Robazza, C., Vitali, F., Bortoli, L., & Ruiz, M. C. (2025). Self-confidence, mental toughness, and psychobiosocial experiences in elite rugby players. Psychology of Sport and Exercise, 77, Article 102798. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychsport.2024.102798
JYU authors or editors
Publication details
All authors or editors: Robazza, Claudio; Vitali, Francesca; Bortoli, Laura; Ruiz, Montse C.
Journal or series: Psychology of Sport and Exercise
ISSN: 1469-0292
eISSN: 1878-5476
Publication year: 2025
Publication date: 14/12/2024
Volume: 77
Article number: 102798
Publisher: Elsevier
Publication country: Netherlands
Publication language: English
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychsport.2024.102798
Publication open access: Not open
Publication channel open access:
Publication is parallel published (JYX): https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/99111
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships between self-confidence, mental toughness, coping functions, challenge and threat appraisals, and functional psychobiosocial experiences. This investigation was conducted within the framework of multi-states (MuSt) theory. The sample consisted of 76 elite male athletes, ranging in age from 19 to 33 years, representing the Italian rugby union national team participating in the 2024 edition of the Men’s Six Nations Championship. Assessments took place during training camps in preparation for the Championship. The results from serial mediation analysis showed that problem-focused coping and challenge appraisal played a mediating role in the relationship between self-confidence, mental toughness, and functional psychobiosocial experiences. These findings support MuSt theory assumptions and have practical implications for the development of training programs aimed at enhancing athletes’ wellbeing and performance.
Keywords: performance (capacity); stress management; self-confidence; toughness (physical properties); coping; challenges; top athletes; evaluation; self-evaluation
Free keywords: dispositional factors; feelings; coping; cognitive appraisals; elite athletes
Contributing organizations
Ministry reporting: Yes
VIRTA submission year: 2025
Preliminary JUFO rating: 1