Psychological factors associated with the vulnerability to injuries in soccer players. A case report in a semi-professional soccer team

Abstract

The association between certain psychological characteristics of athletes and incidence of injuries in a third division soccer team is analyzed (n = 22). In particular, the potential influence of anxiety (CSAI-2), variables related to sports performance (CPRD), coping strategies (ACSQ-1), and emotional regulation (EI) was assessed. Injuries sustained during the 6 months following the evaluation were recorded. Players with no injuries had significantly higher scores in emotional intelligence, cognitive restructuring, self-confidence, and variables related to sports performance, and lower scores in mental withdrawal and risk behaviors. It is concluded that some psychological variables are related to absence of sports injuries. Evaluation of such variables and development of psychological intervention programs for their prevention are therefore recommended.