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 editorsRobazza, Claudio; Vitali, Francesca; Bortoli, Laura; Ruiz, Montse C.

Journal or seriesPsychology of Sport and Exercise

ISSN1469-0292

eISSN1878-5476

Publication year2025

Publication date14/12/2024

Volume77

Article number102798

PublisherElsevier

Publication countryNetherlands

Publication languageEnglish

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychsport.2024.102798

Publication open accessNot 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.


Keywordsperformance (capacity)stress managementself-confidencetoughness (physical properties)copingchallengestop athletesevaluationself-evaluation

Free keywordsdispositional factors; feelings; coping; cognitive appraisals; elite athletes


Contributing organizations


Ministry reportingYes

VIRTA submission year2025

Preliminary JUFO rating1


Last updated on 2025-25-01 at 20:05