Factors related to Sense of Coherence in Japanese university athletes

Abstract

The main aim of the current study was to examine cross-sectionally the correlation between demographic factors and Sense of Coherence (SOC) in Japanese university athletes. The study’s participants were 1,154 Japanese university athletes (771 males and 383 females, mean age 20.02 ± 1.13 years) that have enrolled in Japanese physical education universities. The survey items comprised sex, age, athletic events, years of an athletic career, regular position (regular or non-regular), competition level, and SOC. Binomial logistic regression analysis was then conducted to evaluate the correlation among demographic factors and SOC in universities athletes. The results of the study demonstrated that regular members of Japanese physical education universities were associated with higher SOC. Based on the above, the various life experiences that athletes experience when becoming a regular member could be associated with the establishment and development of SOC. The results of this study can lead to specific interventions toward the enhancement of SOC, not only in becoming regular members but also in SOC development and formation. Moreover, the presented results provide important information for psychological support and guidance to university athletes from a salutogenic perspective.