Comparison of athletic coping skills inventory for para athletes and mainstream athletes

The results suggest that mainstream athletes benefit from greater access to structured psychological support, training resources, and competitive environments, which likely enhance their coping mechanisms. In contrast, para-athletes face systemic barriers, such as limited access to specialized mental health services and adaptive training facilities, which may impede the development of effective coping strategies. The variability in para-athletes' scores further highlights the need for tailored interventions to address their unique psychological and environmental challenges. This study contributes to the growing body of sports psychology literature by emphasizing the importance of inclusive support systems and targeted mental skills training for para-athletes. Recommendations include the development of specialized psychological programs, increased resource allocation, and awareness campaigns to foster equitable opportunities for athletes across all ability levels. The findings advocate for systemic reforms to bridge the coping skills gap, ensuring holistic athlete development and performance optimization in both mainstream and para-sports.