SPANISH ADAPTATION OF THE CTAI-2D. TOOL FOR ASSESSING THE TRAIT ANXIETY IN ATHLETES

Abstract

Trait-Anxiety is a dispositional and stable measure whose evaluation is relevant in the sporting context as the way in which athlete's interpret feelings of anxiety is relevant to competitive performance. The purpose of the present study was to adapt the Competitive Trait Anxiety Inventory (CTAI-2D) into Spanish through a sample of 421 athletes (66.3% men and 33.7% women) aged between 18 and 46 years (mean = 21.16). Firstly, the CTAI-2D was translated. This was then followed by exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and examination of convergent validity. Finally, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was performed. EFA outcomes showed an explained variance of 52.95% for the intensity dimension and 55.55% for valence/direction, whilst CFA produced satisfactory fit indices. The CTAI-2D is a valid and reliable instrument for evaluating trait anxiety. It describes athlete's perceptions of anxiety intensity and whether anxiety is interpreted as an obstacle or facilitator.