The correlation between cognitive control and relational aggression of Sportsmen adults: How do emerging learning technologies matter?

Abstract

Abstract Background This rapidly evolving world, sports dynamics and athletes' cognitive attributes have become subjects of heightened interest. Emerging technologies have also contributed greatly to different fields, particularly physical education. Purpose This study delves into the intriguing correlation between cognitive control and relational aggression among adult sportsmen, shedding light on the pivotal role of emerging learning technologies in this context. Methodology : A mixed-methods research design was employed. A diverse sample of adult athletes from various sports disciplines was purposively selected to ensure gender, age, and skill level representation. Quantitative data were collected through standardized psychometric assessments measuring cognitive control and self-reported relational aggression. Qualitative insights were gathered through semi-structured interviews with a subset of participants. Statistical analyses, including correlation tests and regression analyses, were applied to examine the relationships between cognitive control and relational aggression. Qualitative data from interviews underwent thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and themes related to the influence of innovative learning technologies on cognitive control and aggression management in sports. Findings: Quantitative findings revealed a negative correlation between the sportsmen cognitive control and relational aggression, but the correlation between proactive and reactive relational aggression was significantly positive. Qualitative data revealed 5 main themes each consisting of 5 sub-themes. Conclusions A significant negative correlation between sportsmen's cognitive control and relational aggression underscores the importance of cognitive control in mitigating relational aggression among athletes, highlighting its potential as a valuable target for intervention and training programs aimed at promoting healthier social dynamics within sporting communities. Intriguingly, the positive correlation between proactive and reactive relational aggression suggests that these two forms of relational aggression are not mutually exclusive but may, in fact, co-occur within the context of sports. Implications: These findings collectively contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the cognitive and social dynamics at play among adult sportsmen. They offer valuable insights into the development of tailored interventions and training strategies, which may not only enhance cognitive control but also address the complex nature of relational aggression in sports settings. Ultimately, such interventions have the potential to foster healthier and more harmonious sporting communities.