Exploring Psychological Profiles of Elite Kho-Kho Players: A Gender Perspective

Abstract: This study compares anxiety and motivation levels among elite male and female Kho-Kho players to identify gender-based psychological differences. A total of 110 athletes (55 males, 55 females) participated. Anxiety was assessed using the Sports Competition Anxiety Test (SCAT) by Martens, while motivation was measured with the Sports Motivation Analysis Test (SAMT) by M.L. Kamlesh. Results indicated that male players exhibited slightly higher anxiety levels (M = 18.53, SD = 3.10) than females (M = 17.2, SD = 4.82), but the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.089). In contrast, female athletes demonstrated significantly higher motivation (M = 26.36, SD = 3.73) compared to males (M = 24.11, SD = 4.93), with a statistically significant difference (p = 0.008). These findings highlight the need to consider gender-based psychological traits in sports training. Future research should explore the underlying factors influencing these differences to optimise coaching strategies and enhance athlete performance.