A comparative study on the Mental Toughness level of Individual and team game players

Abstract

Mental toughness is a skill that is typically associated with successful competition performance. The value of mental toughness in competitive sports has been discussed in the literature (A.S. Goldberg, 1998; K. Hodge, 1994; J. Tunney, 1987; R.M. Williams, 1988). Several outcomes are subject to change because of how typically unpredictable sports are. Those who participate in competitive sports rapidly realise that winning is about more than just improving one's physical capabilities. Being physically and mentally capable is one thing; being able to put those skills to use when needed is quite another. Every sports contest involves a struggle of will between the mind and body, which is blatantly obvious in a competitive environment (J.E. Loehr, 1982). This study compares the level of mental toughness among participants in individual and team games. A total of 50 intercollegiate level players were selected for this study out of which 25 players were from the individual game and 25 were from team games. The age of players ranges between 18 to 25 years. The mental toughness of the players was measured by using the Mental Toughness Questionnaire 18 (MTQ) developed by Cherry (2005). The Revised Mental Toughness Questionnaire measures athletes' competitive desire, focus, resiliency, and self-confidence. The result of the study revealed that there is no significant difference in mental toughness (MT) between individual game team games. The data also showed there is no significant difference in mental toughness (MT) between hockey and handball players of team games. Again the result of the study revealed that there is no significant difference in mental toughness (MT) between archery and athletics players of an individual game.