Competitive Anxiety in Youth Sports
In this capstone paper, I examine the multidimensional nature of competitive anxiety in youth sports, emphasizing the interaction between psychological and environmental factors. I reviewed 15 empirical studies between 2021 and 2026 in my evidence-based synthesis. Competitive anxiety, comprising cognitive and somatic components, can negatively affect performance, well-being, and long-term sport participation. The current literature explores how internal psychological factors, such as age, self-confidence, self-efficacy, resilience, and mental toughness, and external influences, including coaching pressure, parental expectations, and competitive context, shape anxiety experiences in youth athletes. Findings indicate that mid-adolescent athletes are particularly vulnerable to competitive anxiety due to developmental and social pressures, while increased experience and self-confidence serve as protective factors. Environmental pressures, especially from coaches and parents, are consistently linked to elevated anxiety, though emotional intelligence may mitigate these effects. Additionally, participation in higher levels of competition and team-based sports is associated with lower anxiety levels. I also evaluate intervention strategies, including psychological skills training, pre-competition routines, and enhanced social support systems, which have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing anxiety and enhancing performance. Despite limitations such as reliance on cross-sectional designs and self-report measures, the literature highlights the importance of adopting a holistic, developmentally informed approach to managing competitive anxiety. Understanding these dynamics can inform coaching practices, parental guidance, and intervention programs aimed at promoting athlete well-being, performance, and sustained engagement in sport.
PSY 499, Senior Capstone
Erin Mueller
1 – 1:25 PM
Goodrich 204
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