Mental strategies and well-being: the dynamics of superstition and obsessive thoughts in team and individual athletes

Agrali Ermis, Sermin; Yıldız Ozturk, Rabia; Toros, Turhan; Serin, Emre; Uzun, Meliha; Canikli Temel, Nisanur

Mental strategies and well-being: the dynamics of superstition and obsessive thoughts in team and individual athletes

Files

Mental strategies and well-being.pdf(705.84 KB)

Date

2026

Authors

Agrali Ermis, Sermin

Yıldız Ozturk, Rabia

Toros, Turhan

Serin, Emre

Uzun, Meliha

Canikli Temel, Nisanur

Publisher

Universidad de Murcia: Servicio de Publicaciones

Abstract

This study aimedto examine the effects of psychological dynamics, particularly superstitions (repetitive thoughts or behaviors)and obsessions(lucky symbols, rituals),on the subjective well-being (mental health and overall satisfaction) of individuals engaged in team and individual sports. The research useda cross-sectional design. A total of 373 athletes (177 females, 196 males) participated in the study. The participants' ages ranged from 18 to 35, with a mean age of 23.7 years. The average sports experience was 7.4 years. Data collection tools included the Obsessive Beliefs Questionnaire, the Attitudes Towards Superstitious Behavior in Sports Scale, and the Subjective Well-Being Scale. The results revealed statistically significant differences in superstition levels, obsessive beliefs, and subjective well-being between team and individual athletes(p<0.05). The effects of superstition and obsession levels on subjective well-being were also identified. These findings suggest that athletes' mental dynamics may differ depending on the type of sport, and these dynamics can have significant impacts on their subjective well-being

Keywords

Superstition , Obsessive Thoughts , Well-Being , Mental Strategies , Athlete

Citation

Canikli Temel, N., Agrali Ermis, S., Yıldız Ozturk, R., Toros, T., Serin, E., & Uzun, M. (2026). Estrategias mentales y bienestar: la dinámica de las supersticiones y los pensamientos obsesivos en deportistas de equipo e individuales. SPORT TK-Revista EuroAmericana De Ciencias Del Deporte, 15, 37.