An Analytical Study of Competition Anxiety and Its Relationship with the Development of Skill Performance in Youth Football Players

Abstract

Abstract

The aim of this study was to design a behavioral counseling program based on emotional release techniques in order to reduce competition anxiety and develop the skill performance of youth football players. This study was conducted in response to the increasing need to provide psychological and skill-based support for young players, especially during the early stages of youth development, due to the direct impact of competition anxiety on performance in competitive situations.

The experimental method was adopted using a one-group design with pre- and post-tests. The sample consisted of youth football players under (19) years of age from Naft Al-Basra Sports Club. The counseling program included a series of psychological sessions utilizing emotional release techniques such as expressive writing, dramatic role-playing (psychodrama), muscle relaxation, deep breathing, mental imagery, and verbal emotional ventilation.

The program was implemented over a period ranging from 6 to 8 weeks, with two sessions per week. A competition anxiety scale and skill performance measures were applied before and after the program to assess its effectiveness. The research problem was represented by the noticeable increase in competition anxiety levels among youth players and the resulting negative effects on their skill performance during matches.

The researcher employed an experimental design consisting of an experimental group and a control group. The study sample included (20) youth football players aged between (17–19) years, intentionally selected from Naft Al-Basra Youth Club..

Multiple measurement tools were used, including a competition anxiety scale and skill performance tests (such as passing accuracy, ball control, and shooting). The results revealed statistically significant differences between the two groups in the pre-, post-, and follow-up measurements in favor of the experimental group, indicating the effectiveness of the program in reducing anxiety levels and improving skill performance.

The study recommends adopting counseling programs based on emotional release techniques within the training plans of clubs and national teams due to their positive impact on the psychological and skill-related aspects of youth players.