Presentation of a Causal Model of Athletic Success Based on Positive Psychological Experiences and Achievement Motivation with the Mediating Role of Self-Esteem in Student Athletes

Document Type : Original Article

Author
Ali Jalili Shishavan
Department of Sport Psychology, Allameh Tabataba'i University, Tehran, Iran
10.48311/ijmpp.2025.116839.82902
Abstract
Aims:The objective was to construct a causal model to investigate the direct and indirect effects of positive psychological experiences and achievement motivation on athletic success, with self-esteem serving as a mediating factor, among elite student athletes.
Method and Materials:A sample of 230 elite student athletes was selected through random sampling. Data were collected using the Positive Psychological States Questionnaire (Rajaei et al., 2011), Eysenck’s Self-Esteem Inventory (1976), the Athletic Success Questionnaire (Mousavi & Vaez, 2015), and Hermans’ Achievement Motivation Scale (1970). Data analysis was performed using SPSS and AMOS software, incorporating both descriptive and inferential statistical methods.
Findings: The proposed model exhibited a good fit. Positive psychological experiences and achievement motivation showed both direct and indirect (through self-esteem) positive and significant effects on athletic success. Self-esteem played a critical mediating role in enhancing the relationship between positive psychological experiences, achievement motivation, and athletic success.
Conclusion The findings highlight the significance of fostering positive psychological factors and self-esteem to enhance athletic success. These results provide a foundation for designing psychological interventions and educational programs for coaches and athletes to optimize performance.

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International Journal of Musculoskeletal Pain Prevention
Volume 10, Issue 4
Autumn 2025
Pages 1324-1332