Predictors of the precompetitive anxiety response: Relative impact and prospects for anxiety regulation

Abstract

The intensity and interpretation of precompetitive anxiety symptoms are associated with athletes’ performance and adherence. Whereas the optimal symptom intensity is task- and individual-dependent, a facilitative symptom interpretation is generally adaptive. Past research has identified several variables thought to influence symptom intensity and interpretation. This study set out to compare a selection of prominent predictors and discuss them in terms of anxiety regulation. Prior to an in-season game, female and male intercollegiate team sport athletes reported their precompetitive anxiety symptom intensity and interpretation (Directional Modification of the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory-2) as well as their perceptions of team cohesion (Group Environment Questionnaire). Beforehand, they indicated their competitive trait anxiety (Sport Anxiety Scale-2), competitive experience, and starting status. Further, gender, team ranking, opponent ranking, and game location were recorded. Logistic regression analyses revealed higher trait anxiety as the strongest predictor of more intense precompetitive anxiety symptoms and more debilitative interpretations. In addition to trait anxiety, better team ranking and an away game location predicted more intense symptoms, whereas higher cohesion predicted a more facilitative interpretation. In terms of effective anxiety regulation, trait anxiety appears to have the greatest effect and, although being hard to reduce, this justifies the time-investment and individual focus in interventions. Conversely, cohesion promises small effects. However, being comparatively easy to enhance, it might constitute a convenient alternative to improve an entire team's symptom interpretation.