Relationship between Mindfulness and Competitive Anxiety among Athletic High-School Students: Mediating Role of Emotion Regulation

Introduction: The relationship between mindfulness and competitive anxiety in athletes, particularly regarding the function of emotion regulation, remains an under-researched area.Objective: This study aims to explore the relationships among mindfulness, emotion regulation, and competitive anxiety in young athletes.Methods: This research employed a descriptive-correlational approach, utilizing structural equation modeling for data analysis. A sample of 194 athletic adolescents was gathered through convenience sampling, and standardized measurement tools were used to assess the research variables. The data were analyzed using Smart PLS version 4.Results: The findings revealed a significant relationship between competitive anxiety (P=0.000, t=-5.56, and b=0.42) and emotion regulation (P=0.000, t=3.25, and b=0.31) within the context of mindfulness. Furthermore, a substantial structural relationship was identified between emotion regulation and competitive anxiety, indicated by P=0.000, t=-4.41, and b=0.39. Importantly, the results suggest that emotion regulation acts as a significant mediator in the relationship between mindfulness and competitive anxiety, supported by a p-value of 0.000, a t-value of 4.12, and a b coefficient of 0.22, highlighting the statistical significance of this association.Conclusion: The findings recommends that athletes incorporate mindfulness meditation into their training regimens to enhance their emotion-regulation capabilities. This practice can help athletes manage their emotional states during competitions, mitigate the effects of negative evaluations and external pressures, and foster a positive competitive mindset.