Development and validation of sports superstition attitude scale

Abstract

Superstition exists in every culture, and particularly in sports. This study aimed to develop a reliable and valid Sports Superstition Attitude Scale (SSAS) and test the influences of superstition on athletes’ behavior. Study #1 developed an initial SSAS draft and examined content validity and reliability. Study #2 examined SSAS factorial structure and construct validity. Study #3 tested hypothesized relationships among athletic identity, locus of control, superstition, and fear of failure. Results found by SSAS comprised three components: ritual and taboo, lucky charms, and folk culture, and showed appropriate construct validity and reliability. Theoretical model examination found that athletic identity and external control interact with superstition to predict fear of failure. We concluded that the 15-item three-factor SSAS is a reliable and valid sport-specific superstition measure that can be used in future studies. We suggest future studies examine how psychosocial factors influence athletes’ behavior and superstition. Limitations and suggestions for future study are also discussed.