Association between superstition levels on sports-specific success motivation in active athletes: a study in Ankara Province

Background/aim: When athletes perceive themselves as strong, they may seek to maintain their motivation through the control of random external factors. The present study examines the effect of superstitions on sports-specific success motivation among active athletes. Materials and methods: The research population consisted of licensed athletes in the athletics branch, while the sample comprised licensed and active athletes based in Ankara. A total of 408 athletes participated in the research, including 201 women, and 207 men. The participants completed a three-part questionnaire consisting of a Personal Information Form, the Motivation in Sports Scale, and the Superstitious Beliefs and Behaviors in Sports Scale. The obtained data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics, version 22.0. Results: It was concluded from the study that the superstition levels of active athletes had a positive effect on sports-specific success motivation. Conclusion: Superstition levels among the respondent active athletes were positively associated with sports-specific success motivation. The findings of the present study suggest that understanding and encouraging superstitious practices among athletes may contribute to enhancing the confidence and motivation of athletes, and consequently, athletic performance.