Evaluating the Relationship Between Team Cohesion and Mental Health in NCAA Athletes

Evaluating the Relationship Between Team Cohesion and Mental Health in NCAA Athletes PDF Author: Janelle Rothacker
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages :

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Book Description
Objective: College student-athletes face unique stressors at a developmental stage marked by heightened prevalence of mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, and disordered eating. Given the value ascribed to membership in small groups, perceptions of group cohesion may be a critical aspect of athletes social environment for promoting mental health in sports teams. The purpose of the current study was to determine the association between perceived group cohesion and self-reported perceptions of anxiety, depression, and disordered eating. Methods: Athletes (N =124) were recruited within their sport teams to complete an electronic survey. Participants completed measures of group cohesion (i.e., attraction to group-task, attraction to group-social, group integration-social, group integration-task), social support, anxiety, depression, and disordered eating. Results: Preliminary analyses generally revealed weak bivariate correlations between group cohesion and the three dependent variables, although depression had a moderate correlation with two cohesion subscales: attachment to group-task and group integration-social. Linear regressions examined the extent that four subscales of group cohesion predicted mental health issues. Whereas group cohesion was not a significant predictor of anxiety, depression and disordered eating behaviors were significantly predicted by group cohesion. Increases in cohesion were linked to lower perceptions of both depression and disordered eating with the strongest significant predictors being attachment to grouptask and group integrationtask. Conclusions: These findings highlight group cohesion as a predictor of mental health issues, and depression in particular. While these findings are preliminary, they point toward the potential role of group environments within mental health interventions.

Evaluating the Relationship Between Team Cohesion and Mental Health in NCAA Athletes

Evaluating the Relationship Between Team Cohesion and Mental Health in NCAA Athletes PDF Author: Janelle Rothacker
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages :

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Book Description
Objective: College student-athletes face unique stressors at a developmental stage marked by heightened prevalence of mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, and disordered eating. Given the value ascribed to membership in small groups, perceptions of group cohesion may be a critical aspect of athletes social environment for promoting mental health in sports teams. The purpose of the current study was to determine the association between perceived group cohesion and self-reported perceptions of anxiety, depression, and disordered eating. Methods: Athletes (N =124) were recruited within their sport teams to complete an electronic survey. Participants completed measures of group cohesion (i.e., attraction to group-task, attraction to group-social, group integration-social, group integration-task), social support, anxiety, depression, and disordered eating. Results: Preliminary analyses generally revealed weak bivariate correlations between group cohesion and the three dependent variables, although depression had a moderate correlation with two cohesion subscales: attachment to group-task and group integration-social. Linear regressions examined the extent that four subscales of group cohesion predicted mental health issues. Whereas group cohesion was not a significant predictor of anxiety, depression and disordered eating behaviors were significantly predicted by group cohesion. Increases in cohesion were linked to lower perceptions of both depression and disordered eating with the strongest significant predictors being attachment to grouptask and group integrationtask. Conclusions: These findings highlight group cohesion as a predictor of mental health issues, and depression in particular. While these findings are preliminary, they point toward the potential role of group environments within mental health interventions.

Mind Body and Sport

Mind Body and Sport PDF Author: NCAA
Publisher:
ISBN: 9781495131752
Category :
Languages : en
Pages :

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Role Conflict and Team Environment in Relation to Mental Health Among Division I College Student Athletes

Role Conflict and Team Environment in Relation to Mental Health Among Division I College Student Athletes PDF Author: Allison M. Rosset
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 58

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A Group of Individuals Or a Singular Team?

A Group of Individuals Or a Singular Team? PDF Author: Taylor A. Wilhelmy
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Educational psychology
Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
A multitude of research has already been conducted on the concept of cohesion in sport with the majority of research looking at the relationship between cohesion and performance. It has been found that the correlation between cohesion and performance is moderately strong and positive; however, little research has been conducted on potential antecedents and moderators that influence the development of cohesion. Three potential environmental inputs that have been scarcely found in the sport literature include previous success, tenure and group size. Usually analyzed at the same time as other variables of interest, research on success and cohesion in sport has found that for winning teams, cohesion remained consistent throughout the sport season while those on losing teams saw a decrease in cohesion over this same time period. Concentrated in the business domain, increased tenure has been shown to provide greater overall team stability and greater social cohesion. Research on group size has found that increases in the number of individuals on a sport team decreases cohesion while small to medium sized exercise classes provide enough social opportunities but larger classes see these opportunities decrease. When used as a moderator, the type of team has been found to not moderate the cohesion-performance relationship. With limited knowledge on antecedents of cohesion along with the potential moderation effect of team type and the changes in cohesion over time, the purpose of this study is to examine the relationships between previous season success, team tenure and group size and cohesion, see if team type moderates these relationships and explore how cohesion changes over time. It is hypothesized that the relationship between group size and cohesion will be negative while the relationships between previous success and cohesion along with tenure and cohesion will be positive. Additionally, the relationships between the three environmental variables of interest and cohesion will be stronger for those on coactive teams compared to interactive teams. A total of 118 current NCAA student-athletes partook in this study of which 57 were from coactive teams and 61 were from interactive teams. Participants completed an online Qualtrics composed of three sections: demographics, environmental inputs and the Group Environment Questionnaire (GEQ) to assess cohesion. At the end of this questionnaire, participants were asked if they were willing to partake in an additional questionnaire, containing only the GEQ, to contribute to the exploration of cohesion over time. Of the 118 total participants, 86 agreed to partake in the second questionnaire four weeks later with 37 responses recorded. Multiple regression analyses, the PROCESS macro and a paired samples t-test were conducted to see if there are any relationships between the environmental inputs and cohesion, if team type moderates these relationships and to explore changes in cohesion over four weeks respectively. Analyses found that previous success was a positive predictor for both Group Integration subscales of cohesion. Additionally, team type was found to moderate the relationship between tenure and both ATG cohesion subscales with tenure being found to be a significant predictor for the task cohesion subscales (ATG-T and GI-T) and team type being an additional predictor of ATG-T. While no significant relationships were found between tenure and ATG-S for both coactive and interactive teams along with the relationship between tenure and ATG-T for interactive teams, there was a significant negative relationship found between tenure and ATG-T for coactive teams. It was also found that cohesion did not significantly differ between the initial questionnaire and the second questionnaire administered four weeks later. Keywords: cohesion; NCAA; previous success; tenure; group size; moderation; team type; longitudinal; coactive; interactive

Exploring the Relationship Between Team Characteristics and Mental Health Symptoms Amongst Student Athletes

Exploring the Relationship Between Team Characteristics and Mental Health Symptoms Amongst Student Athletes PDF Author:
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 45

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Book Description
Depression and anxiety are disabling conditions that are particularly prevalent amongst young adults (Wolanin, Hong, Marks, Panchoo, & Gross, 2016). Student athletes must cope with extensive time demands that go beyond those of ordinary young adults, consequently putting them at increased risk to experiencing mental health issues. Numerous factors may influence an athlete's well being, such as gender, injury, and type of sport. This study tests these various factors but also extends previous literature by analyzing the effects of team dynamics on student athlete mental health. An anonymous multi-part questionnaire was sent out to all JMU athletes in the Fall of 2017. Chi square statistical tests were used to determine whether there was a mathematical association between team characteristics and the presence or absence of mental health symptoms. There was a significant correlation between 'pressure' and anxiety (X2 = 13.403, p = .009). In addition, 'inability to trust teammates' and 'not sharing goals of personal improvement' also contributed to increased levels of anxiety. There was a significant correlation between serious injuries and depression (X2 = 4.325, p = .038). Lack of time for social life and inability to effectively manage conflicts within the team both contributed to increased levels of depression as well. Fortunately, the data showed that JMU's student athletes had higher mental health scores than American college students as a whole, according to prior research, and they do feel as though the resources available to them are adequate.

An Evaluation of Mental Health Needs of and Services Provided to Intercollegiate Athletes

An Evaluation of Mental Health Needs of and Services Provided to Intercollegiate Athletes PDF Author: Steven Craig Caberto
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : College athletes
Languages : en
Pages : 212

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An Evaluation of Marginalized Student-Athlete Mental Health, Access To and Utilization of Support Services

An Evaluation of Marginalized Student-Athlete Mental Health, Access To and Utilization of Support Services PDF Author: Ashley Boles
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
NCAA student-athletes (SAs) face unique challenges as they simultaneously navigate sports, adulthood, and academic demands. Research indicates that SAs experience mental health issues at rates similar to or higher than their non-athlete peers, yet they are often less likely to seek help as they experience possible contributing factors including lack of knowledge on how and where to seek services, and stigma, which can both discourage service utilization. This study examined the mental health concerns of 145 NCAA SAs, focusing on the impact of biopsychosocial (BPS) factors influenced by division, injury, and marginalization status. Using Engel’s BPS framework, which considers biological, psychological, and social dimensions, the study aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of SA mental health. The research explored differences in mental health concerns across NCAA divisions, injury status, and marginalization status (e.g., race, gender, sexuality) and their influence on access to and use of mental health services. Findings indicated that SAs across all divisions face similar mental health challenges; however, disparities were noted, particularly among marginalized groups, including women and LGBTQ+ SAs. These groups reported greater mental health challenges and varying levels of support from coaches, teams, and institutions, often compounded by stigma and perceived inadequate support. The study advocates for policy change across all NCAA divisions to further prioritize mental health, promote holistic well-being, and enhance SA performance. It calls for a cultural shift within athletic departments and institutions to destigmatize mental health issues and provide inclusive, tailored mental health support systems that meet the diverse needs of all SAs. This research emphasizes the need for equitable mental health support to address the interconnected factors contributing to SA mental health, aiming to raise awareness and drive improvements in mental health resources for student-athletes.

Mental Health in the Athlete

Mental Health in the Athlete PDF Author: Eugene Hong
Publisher: Springer Nature
ISBN: 3030447545
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 299

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Book Description
This unique book provides a practical framework for and coverage of a broad range of mental health concerns applicable to the care of athletes, including depression, suicide, mood disorders, substance abuse and risk-taking behaviors. To this end, it presents content relevant to the care of athletes, including doping and the use of performance-enhancing drugs, the mental health impact of concussion, bullying and hazing, the impact of social media and exercise addiction, among other pertinent topics. Current basic and translational research on behavioral health and the relationship of brain to behavior are reviewed, and current treatment approaches, both pharmacological and non-pharmacological (including mindfulness training), are considered. This practical resource targets the stigma of mental in athletes in order to overcome barriers to care by presenting a definitive perspective of current concepts in the mental health care of athletes, provided by experts in the field and targeting sports medicine providers, mental health providers and primary care physicians involved in the direct care of recreational and competitive athletes at all levels.

Fostering the Mental Health of Athletes, Coaches, and Staff

Fostering the Mental Health of Athletes, Coaches, and Staff PDF Author: Charles A. Maher
Publisher: Taylor & Francis
ISBN: 1000632245
Category : Psychology
Languages : en
Pages : 209

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Book Description
This book describes a systems approach for fostering the mental health of athletes, coaches, and staff in sport organizations at professional, collegiate, and secondary school levels. Through this approach, readers can collaborate effectively with a range of professionals in sport organizations, helping to create a mentally healthy entity. Fostering the Mental Health of Athletes, Coaches, and Staff includes a set of sequential, interrelated chapters that detail precise steps along with practitioner exercises. Following an introductory chapter about the evolution of mental health in sport organizations, the systems approach is overviewed in terms of its constituent dimensions. Chapter-by-chapter guidance then is provided about the following activities: Creating a vision and direction for mental health in a sport organization Assessing the readiness of a sport organization for mental health initiatives Identifying and involving people as key contributors to mental health Assessing the mental and emotional development of athletes, coaches, and staff Designing and implementing mental health programs and services Educating and training coaches, staff, and administrators about mental health Establishing a team environment conducive to mental health Formulating and enacting mental health policies, plans, and procedures Coordinating mental skills, life skills, and mental health Evaluating mental health programs and services Making decisions about improving mental health initiatives Through its unique and important nature and scope, as well as being the first of its kind to discuss athlete mental health through this specific lens, this book is essential for licensed sport, clinical, and counseling psychologists, as well as other professionals who communicate and collaborate regarding mental health, including mental performance consultants, athletic trainers, and administrators.

Factors Influencing and Predicting the Likelihood of Seeking Mental Health Help

Factors Influencing and Predicting the Likelihood of Seeking Mental Health Help PDF Author: Matthew David Bird
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
Collegiate athletes experience mental health concerns at similar rates to non-athlete students, however, the student-athlete population underutilizes professional mental health help with only 10% of those in need seeking services. Criticisms of the extant research on studentathlete mental health help-seeking include studies that lack theoretical guidance, and convenience samples who are not experiencing a mental health issue. The aim of this study was to conduct a theoretically driven investigation assessing factors of help-seeking associated with the Health Belief Model and Reasoned Action Approach while sampling student-athletes who identified as currently experiencing a personal or emotional health concern. More specifically, the purpose of this study was to investigate which factors of help-seeking behavior predict the likelihood that a student-athlete will seek professional help, and to identify the differences in help-seeking factors between student-athletes with a lower likelihood of seeking help compared to those with a higher likelihood of seeking help. Participants were 269 NCAA student-athletes who completed an online survey assessing factors related to their help-seeking behavior. A multiple liner regression reveled that perceived benefits, perceived susceptibility, and perceived attitudes factors were significant predictors of the likelihood that a student-athlete would seek treatment. Results from a one-way MANOVA showed significant differences between the lower likelihood and the higher likelihood of seeking help group on the perceived seriousness, perceived susceptibility, perceived benefits, instrumental barriers, stigma-related barriers, and the perceived attitudes factors. Additional information gathered in this study suggests the most frequently reported factors which prevented student-athletes from seeking help include a belief the issues they are experiencing is not that serious, or a desire to seek help from a source other than a mental health professional. Findings from this study have implications for athletic departments, campus counseling centers, and future interventions designed to enhance mental health help-seeking.