Hannah Joy S. Batucan, Teejay D. Panganiban, Federico H. Rojales, Yulingga Nanda Hanief, Joana Marie Carina M. Gabunilas, Lualhati A. Dela Cruz, Francisco Gabriel Prevandos, Jovi Jane C. Bernales, Kaye D. Punzalan, Jennifer Baes Atienza, Ria S. Tanglao, Ryan Cazel N. Lalog
This study examines the mediating role of sports emotions in the relationship between implicit beliefs and mental toughness among student-athletes. Implicit beliefs, categorized as incremental (growth mindset) and entity (fixed mindset), influence athletes' cognitive, emotional, and behavioral responses to competition. Mental toughness, a key psychological trait in athletic success, is shaped by both cognitive and emotional factors. This study utilized a quantitative research design with 500 student-athletes from Regions 9 and 10 in Mindanao, Philippines, employing standardized measures to assess implicit beliefs, sports emotions, and mental toughness. Mediation analysis revealed that sports emotions significantly influenced the relationship between implicit beliefs and mental toughness. Incremental beliefs were associated with greater happiness and excitement, leading to higher mental toughness, while entity beliefs were linked to increased dejection and anxiety, resulting in lower resilience. Notably, dejection and anger were significant mediators in the relationship between implicit beliefs and mental toughness, highlighting the role of emotional regulation in sports performance. These findings underscore the importance of fostering a growth mindset and developing emotional regulation strategies to enhance mental resilience among athletes. The study suggests that coaches, sports psychologists, and educators should implement interventions that reinforce growth-oriented beliefs and adaptive emotional responses to optimize performance. Future research should explore longitudinal designs and additional psychological factors that influence mental toughness to develop more comprehensive athlete development programs. © 2025, Campus EDUCA SPORTIS S.L.. All rights reserved.
J.H. Cerilles State College, Philippines; Batangas State University TNEU, Philippines; State University of Malang, Indonesia; Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Philippines; National University, Philippines; University of Batangas, Philippines; First Asia Institute of Technology and Humanities, Philippines
