Psychological Predictors of Competitive Performance in Young Gymnasts

Abstract

56 young boys were selected for a 1-yr. study to determine the role of selected psychological variables in gymnastic competitive performance. Of the top performers on a battery of physical tests 14% ( n = 28) were considered to have high potential. A second group of 28, who placed 50th to 77th on the same physical battery tests, were considered to have average potential. After 1 mo. of training, the children were administered psychological tests of concentration and eye-hand coordination plus tests of frustration, anxiety, and locus of control. Following a year of practice all the children participated in two competitions to assess progress in gymnastics. A multiple regression analysis showed that the two best predictors of success in competition involved concentration (accuracy and speed variables, 41%). Combined variables explained 58% of the performance variance. Comparison of the two groups showed that those with high potential were more internal in locus of control and reacted to frustration with mote persistence and less ego-defense than their peers. The authors discuss the implications of using psychological tests in selecting boys for training in competitive gymnastics.