Self-esteem, psychological factors, and sports participation: a comparative study among basketball players and non-active individuals

This study investigates the relationship between self-esteem, psychological factors, and sports participation among national team basketball players, national league players, and non-active individuals. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research integrates multiple psychological constructs, including self-efficacy, mental toughness, and cognitive reappraisal, to provide a comprehensive assessment of self-esteem across different levels of sports engagement. Findings reveal that national team players exhibit significantly higher self-esteem compared to national league players and non-active individuals, with self-efficacy emerging as a key mediating factor. Regression analysis confirms that sports participation significantly predicts self-esteem, highlighting the psychological benefits of competitive sports. The study addresses a critical gap in the literature by comparing diverse groups and integrating multiple psychological dimensions, offering valuable insights for sports psychologists, coaches, and policymakers