Pregame Mindset of Athletes: Psychological Readiness, Anxiety, and Instruction Following Across Individual and Team Sports

International Journal of Humanities and Social Science

© 2025 by SSRG - IJHSS Journal

Volume 12 Issue 6

Year of Publication : 2025

Authors : Yashasvi Gehlot

10.14445/23942703/IJHSS-V12I6P102

How to Cite?

Yashasvi Gehlot, "Pregame Mindset of Athletes: Psychological Readiness, Anxiety, and Instruction Following Across Individual and Team Sports," SSRG International Journal of Humanities and Social Science, vol. 12,  no. 6, pp. 9-22, 2025. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23942703/IJHSS-V12I6P102

Abstract:

The pre-game period is one of the most crucial as it shapes mental readiness, enhances anxiety, and improves athletic performance. This study surveyed a sample of 94 athletes, out of which 43 played team sports and 51 played individual sports, with a focus on their years of experience. In order to assess their performance, a seven-item scale was created to assess the readiness to follow instructions. The I-PRRS Inventory of Psychological Readiness to Perform in Sport was modified for pre-game application to assess athletes’ psychological readiness, and the Sport Anxiety Scale was adapted to measure pre game anxiety levels. The study found that psychological readiness is negatively correlated with pre-game anxiety. In conclusion, the study reinforced that a stable and well-regulated mental state shaped by emotional regulation, anxiety management, and respect for hierarchy is crucial for optimal athletic performance.

Keywords:

Athletes, Pregame mindset, Psychological readiness, Emotional regulation, Pre-game anxiety, Respect for hierarchy.

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