Psychological resilience in athletes during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative insight

Talib Hussain; Dake Wang; Benqian Li

doi:10.1016/j.actpsy.2023.104050

Psychological resilience in athletes during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative insight

Acta Psychol (Amst). 2023 Oct:240:104050. doi: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2023.104050. Epub 2023 Oct 11.

Authors

Talib Hussain¹, Dake Wang², Benqian Li³

Affiliations

¹ School of Media and Communication, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, 2002240 Shanghai, China; Faculty of Social Sciences, Media and Communication, University of Religions and Denominations, Qom, Iran. Electronic address: talibhussian@sjtu.edu.cn.
² School of Media and Communication, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, 2002240 Shanghai, China. Electronic address: dakewang@sjtu.edu.cn.
³ School of Media and Communication, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, 2002240 Shanghai, China. Electronic address: libenqian@sjtu.edu.cn.

PMID: 37832493
DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2023.104050

Abstract

This study employs a qualitative research methodology to comprehensively investigate the psychological resilience of athletes impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Through purposeful sampling, a diverse group of athletes representing various sports, competitive levels, and geographic locations was selected, ensuring a holistic exploration of their experiences. Data collection centered on in-depth interviews, utilizing a semi-structured approach guided by predetermined open-ended questions. Ethical standards were meticulously upheld, with informed consent obtained from all participants, and strict measures in place to safeguard their confidentiality and anonymity. Prior to data collection, pilot testing of interview questions was conducted to enhance their clarity and appropriateness. Subsequently, data analysis involved the meticulous transcription of field-notes and audio-recordings into protocols and transcripts, followed by systematic coding facilitated by qualitative data management software. To enhance research rigor, strategies including reflexivity, member-checking, and collaborative coding were embraced. This comprehensive methodology facilitated a deep and nuanced exploration of athletes' experiences, perceptions, and coping strategies during the pandemic, ultimately contributing valuable insights to the study of psychological resilience in sports. The findings shed light on the challenges athletes faced, the support systems and personal attributes that fostered resilience, and the role of well-being practices like mindfulness and self-care in enhancing psychological resilience. The implications of this research extend to proactive strategies for sports organizations and stakeholders, fostering a culture of resilience, and empowering athletes to thrive in the face of adversity, ultimately promoting their long-term psychological well-being.

Keywords: Athletes; COVID-19 pandemic; Exercise; Health; Psychological resilience; Qualitative research; Sport.

MeSH terms

Adaptation, Psychological
Athletes / psychology
COVID-19* / epidemiology
Humans
Pandemics
Resilience, Psychological*