The Effect of Role Uncertainty of Students in University Team Sports on Team Combination

Abstract

The primary objective of this research is to assess the level of team cohesiveness and role ambiguity among students who participate in university team sports, and examine them based on pre-determined variables. The selection of participants was conducted through a convenient sampling approach. The study employed the cross-sectional scanning method and comprised a sample of 238 participants, consisting of 88 females (37%) and 150 males (63%), who are engaged in team sports at Gümüşhane University during the 2022-2023 academic year. A Personal Information Form, Team Cohesion Scale and Role Ambiguity Scale were utilised to gather data in this study. Data was then analysed using T-tests, ANAVO and correlation tests. Analysis results indicate that university students who participate in team sports demonstrate above average team unity, whilst exhibiting below average role ambiguity. Men were found to have better scores in the team unity and group attractiveness task dimensions, based on gender. In contrast, students studying in departments other than physical education and sports schools reported higher role ambiguity. It has been noted that university students who have played on the same sports team for 1-5 years encounter greater role ambiguity compared to those who have had longer experience. Playing different sports and the number of years spent playing sports did not impact participants' team unity or role ambiguity. An additional noteworthy finding is the negative significant connection between role ambiguity and team commitment.