The Effects of Optimism, Coping Strategies, and the Sport Team Environment on College Adjustment

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Brett C. Haskell (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Advisor
Renee Appaneal

Abstract: Research has shown that personality variables, such as optimism and coping, and integration into the college environment predict students' adjustment to college (Aspinwall & Taylor, 1992; Pascarella & Terenzini, 1975). However, none of the research available has investigated how the combination of personality characteristics and integration into the sport environment impact the college adjustment of athletes (Melendez, 2007). The purpose of this research was to examine the relationship between optimism, coping strategies, and sport integration as it influences college student-athlete adjustment. A questionnaire packet was used to measure optimism, coping, perceptions of sport integration, and college adjustment. Results of multiple regression analysis revealed that commitment to one's team and sport goals, and one's use of positive reframing, instrumental support, denial, and self blame were significant predictors of athletes' overall adjustment to college. This finding supports the hypothesis that for student-athletes successful integration into specific sport structures in combination with certain personality characteristics can effectively improve adjustment to college.

Additional Information

Publication
Thesis
Language: English
Date: 2008
Keywords
Adjustment, college, integration, coping, athletes, optimism
Subjects
College freshmen $x Attitudes.
Personality and academic achievement.
Student adjustment $x Psychological aspects.
College athletes $x Attitudes.

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