Predictors of Self-Efficacy in Norwegian Competition Riders

Abstract

The present article addresses the relationship between personality, sociodemographic characteristics, rider characteristics, perceptions about horse–human interaction, and self-efficacy in competition riders. An invitation to participate and a link to an online questionnaire was distributed via e-mail to members of the Norwegian Equestrian Federation. In total, 662 riders accessed the survey site and completed the questionnaire. The number of incorrect or out-of-use e-mail addresses was not known, and the 12.4% response rate must be interpreted as the lowest likely response rate. The results show that riders whose personality is conscientious and systematic, open to new experiences and low on neuroticism, riders with high education and no health problems, riders who experience a higher degree of peace and harmony in the company of horses, and riders who compete in the higher classes have a higher general self-efficacy than other riders. Age, gender, relationship status, number of horses the rider owned, number of years riding, riding discipline, riders' perception of their favorite horse's personality, their reported feelings while in the company of horses, and experiencing a sense of leadership and reduced anxiety when with horses did not predict general self-efficacy in the riders. A trustful partnership with the horse, characterized by riders' feelings of harmony and peace, may increase competition riders' self-efficacy. Mental or psychological coaching may also be of value in increasing self-efficacy.