The protective role of self-efficacy against high-risk behaviors in Iranian adolescent wrestlers

Abstract: Introduction: High-risk behaviors (HRBs) among the youth represent a significant concern due to their potential negative impact on physical and mental health, as well as psychosocial development. This study specifically examined the prevalence of HRBs and their relationship with self-efficacy and mental well-being among adolescent wrestlers in Iran. Methods: A total of 435 wrestlers (M_age = 15.85, SD = 2.18) were recruited through convenience sampling. Participants completed questionnaires assessing HRBs, self-efficacy, and mental well-being. Results: Descriptive analysis indicated a relatively low prevalence of HRBs within this sample, particularly concerning substance use, sexual behavior, and hygiene-related risk factors. Pearson correlation analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between HRBs and mental health problems (r=0.12, p=0.01), suggesting that higher mental health problems may be associated with increased HRBs. In contrast, a significant inverse relationship was found between self-efficacy and HRBs (r=−0.32, p<0.001), indicating that higher self-efficacy is associated with lower engagement in HRBs. Multiple regression analysis further demonstrated that self-efficacy was a significant predictor of HRBs. Conclusion: These findings suggest the protective role of self-efficacy in mitigating HRBs among adolescent athletes and highlight the need for interventions aimed at enhancing self-efficacy to reduce HRBs in adolescent wrestlers. Future research should explore the mechanisms underlying these associations within the context of sports psychiatry.