International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Growth Evaluation  |  ISSN (Online): 2582-7138  |  Double-Blind Peer Review  |  Open Access  |  CC BY 4.0

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     2026:7/3

International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Growth Evaluation

ISSN (Online): 2582-7138 | Open Access

Structured Self-Talk Training and Competitive Outcomes in Adolescent Handball: Effects on Anxiety, Self-Efficacy, and Performance in a Quasi-Experimental Study

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Volume: 1 | Issue: 5 | Pages: 625-635

Subject: Psychology

Country: Benin

DOI: https://doi.org/10.54660/IJMRGE.2020.1.5.625-635

License: CC BY 4.0

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Abstract

Competitive handball can be mentally and emotionally intense for adolescents, and the pressure to perform often increases anxiety and disrupts decision-making during matches. Although self-talk training is widely discussed as a practical way to improve focus and emotional control, there is still limited evidence of its impact in team-based youth sports such as handball. This study investigated whether a structured self-talk program could reduce competitive anxiety, boost self-efficacy, and improve performance in adolescent handball players. Using a quasi-experimental design, 48 male and female athletes aged 13–17 years were placed in either an intervention group or a comparison group that continued normal training. Over eight weeks, the intervention group practiced structured self-talk that blended instructional cues (to guide technique and tactical choices) with motivational cues (to sustain confidence and effort). These self-talk strategies were built directly into technical drills and match-like simulations so athletes could apply them under realistic competitive conditions. Competitive anxiety and self-efficacy were measured with validated sport psychology scales, while performance was evaluated using match statistics and coach-rated performance indices. Pre- and post-intervention outcomes were compared using mixed-design ANOVA, alongside effect sizes to judge practical impact. The self-talk group showed clear benefits compared with the comparison group. Both cognitive anxiety (worry and negative thoughts) and somatic anxiety (physical tension) decreased significantly, while self-efficacy increased, reflecting stronger belief in skill execution and coping under pressure. Performance also improved, including better pass success, more effective defensive actions, and higher overall coach ratings. Effects ranged from moderate to large. The program fit smoothly into regular practice with no reported adverse effects. Overall, structured self-talk appears to be a low-cost, workable strategy for improving psychological readiness and match performance in adolescent handball. 
 

How to Cite This Article

Ebako Faith Destiny, Erahu Hope Odin (2020). Structured Self-Talk Training and Competitive Outcomes in Adolescent Handball: Effects on Anxiety, Self-Efficacy, and Performance in a Quasi-Experimental Study . International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Growth Evaluation (IJMRGE), 1(5), 625-635. DOI: https://doi.org/10.54660/IJMRGE.2020.1.5.625-635

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Publication Information

Journal: International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Growth Evaluation (IJMRGE)

Publisher: Anfo Publication House

ISSN: 2582-7138 (Online)

Frequency: Bimonthly

Language: English

Open Access: Yes - This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License

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