MENTAL STRENGTH FOR THE CONSTRUCTS OF SELF-CONFIDENCE, COMMITMENT, CHALLENGES, AND SELF-CONTROL AMONG ATHLETES OF THE NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF MALAYSIA

Abstract

The importance of mental health, especially among athletes, is becoming increasingly crucial amidst the rapid pressures of life. The mental strength of athletes not only influences sports performance but also has an impact on daily life. This study aims to examine the four levels of mental strength constructs among athletes at the National University of Malaysia (UKM). A total of 50 athletes were selected as the study sample. The Mental Toughness Questionnaire 48 (MTQ48) survey was employed to measure four constructs: self confidence, commitment, challenge and self-control. Additionally, the collected data were analyzed using the Statistics Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 29. The study found that UKM athletes obtained the highest scores in the constructs of self-confidence and commitment, emphasizing belief in their ability to produce positive outcomes. Regarding the constructs of challenge and self-control, athletes showed a tendency to face challenges by achieving their best performance and adapting to circumstances. The difference in all the four constructs of mental strength levels between male and female athletes is not significant, with female athletes having higher mean values and standard deviations compared to male athletes. In conclusion, the mental health of athletes plays a crucial role in achieving optimal performance. Efforts to enhance understanding of this mental strength need to be continued, not only among athletes but also in the general community. With mental strength, not only can sports performance be improved, but also everyday life. Sports institutions, including universities, can provide training and development on this mental strength to athletes to enhance self-confidence, commitment, and skills in facing challenges.