INTEGRATING SELF-DETERMINATION THEORY AND ACHIEVEMENT GOAL ORIENTATION IN MANAGING COMPETITIVE ANXIETY AMONG UNIVERSITY ATHLETES: A CONCEPTUAL REVIEW
Keywords:
Achievement Goal Orientation, Competitive Anxiety, Self Determination Theory, University AthletesAbstract
University sports participation is inherently competitive, often producing both positive and negative behavioural outcomes shaped by athletes’ psychological states, particularly competitive anxiety. This study examined the relationship between self-determination, goal orientations, and competitive anxiety among university athletes in Southwest Nigeria, with a focus on Lagos State. Drawing on Self-Determination Theory, key components autonomy, competence, relatedness, and causality orientations were analyzed alongside goal orientation dispositions (task and ego) to determine their influence on athletes’ anxiety levels. A review-based approach was adopted to synthesize existing empirical and theoretical evidence. Findings indicate that self-determination components and goal orientations significantly contribute to variations in competitive anxiety among university athletes. Specifically, athletes with higher levels of autonomy, competence, and task-oriented goals tend to experience more adaptive psychological outcomes, whereas ego orientation is more closely associated with maladaptive anxiety responses. The study recommends that coaches adopt individualized motivational strategies tailored to athletes’ psychological needs, implement structured anxiety management training, and foster supportive motivational climates. Additionally, promoting a flow-oriented mindset is essential for optimizing performance and psychological well-being among university athletes.References
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