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

Authors

  • Nisanur Canikli Temel Faculty of Sport Sciences, Aydin Adnan Menderes University, Aydin, Türkiye.
  • Sermin Agrali Ermis Faculty of Sport Sciences, Aydin Adnan Menderes University, Aydin, Türkiye.
  • Rabia Yıldız Ozturk Faculty of Sport Sciences, Mersin University, Mersin, Türkiye.
  • Turhan Toros Faculty of Sport Sciences, Mersin University, Mersin, Türkiye.
  • Emre Serin Faculty of Sport Sciences, Mersin University, Mersin, Türkiye.
  • Meliha Uzun School of Physical Education and Sports, Sirnak University, Sirnak, Türkiye.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.6018/sportk.686101

Keywords:

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

Abstract

This study aimed to 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 used a 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.

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Published

19-05-2026

How to Cite

Canikli Temel, N., Agrali Ermis, S., Yıldız Ozturk, R., Toros, T., Serin, E., & Uzun, M. (2026). Mental strategies and well-being: the dynamics of superstition and obsessive thoughts in team and individual athletes. SPORT TK-EuroAmerican Journal of Sport Sciences, 15, 37. https://doi.org/10.6018/sportk.686101

Issue

Vol. 15 (2026)

Section

Articles

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