Structured Sports and Adolescent Mental Strength: A Study on Malaysian High School Basketball Players

This study investigates the psychological impact of basketball participation among Malaysian high school students. Drawing on Social Cognitive Theory and Self-Determination Theory, the research examines three core psychological constructs: self-efficacy, psychological resilience, and emotional regulation. A quasi-experimental design was employed, involving 240 students divided into two groups based on their involvement in structured basketball training. Validated psychometric scales were used to measure each construct, and statistical analyses included t-tests and ANCOVA to assess group differences while controlling for demographic variables. Findings indicate that students who regularly participated in basketball reported significantly higher levels of self-efficacy and resilience, as well as better emotional regulation, compared to their non-participating peers. These effects remained significant after adjusting for age, gender, and academic performance. The results support the role of school-based basketball programs as effective platforms for promoting adolescents’ psychological development. This study contributes to the limited body of research on youth sport psychology in Malaysia and offers practical implications for educators and policymakers seeking to enhance student well-being through physical education.