Mentally tough behaviour in athletic populations: a scoping review

Background Mental toughness (MT) is a psychological attribute that has been associated with superior performance in a sporting domain. Existing research on the topic has explored the link between MT and other psychological attributes conducive to success in sport. However, less research attention has been directed toward identifying behaviours and behavioural outcomes associated with varying levels of MT.Objective The purpose of this scoping review was to examine the available MT quantitative literature and identify observable behaviours and behavioural outcomes associated with MT.Methods Four databases (APA PsycNet, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched with 417 initial records identified. Twenty-two sources of evidence met the inclusion criteria for the current review.Results Themes were developed relating to the outcomes associated with psychometrically assessed MT levels. Two overarching themes were developed: observable outcomes and regulatory behaviour, with corresponding sub-themes.Conclusions Given the variety of MT measures and conceptualisations used in the body of research, it was difficult to draw consistent findings between MT and observable behaviours. Much research in the MT behaviour space is directed towards outcomes compared with competitive behaviours which may facilitate these. Future research is needed to dive deeper into behaviours associated with MT.