Does cognitive flexibility enhance decision-making in sports?
Background: Decision-making is a multifaceted process crucial in both individual and organizational settings, particularly in high-pressure environments like sports. Cognitive flexibility plays a vital role in enhancing athletes’ decision-making abilities. This study examines the relationship bet...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MRE Press
2025-05-01
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| Series: | Journal of Men's Health |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://oss.jomh.org/files/article/20250530-545/pdf/JOMH2024102801.pdf |
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| Summary: | Background: Decision-making is a multifaceted process crucial
in both individual and organizational settings, particularly in high-pressure
environments like sports. Cognitive flexibility plays a vital role in enhancing
athletes’ decision-making abilities. This study examines the relationship between
cognitive flexibility and decision-making processes among athletes, focusing on
the sub-dimensions of “Alternatives” and “Control”. Methods: A quantitative research design utilizing a relational survey model was employed.
Data were collected from 743 male athletes across various sports disciplines in
Türkiye. The Sports Effective Decision-Making Scale and the Cognitive
Flexibility Inventory were used as measurement tools. Confirmatory factor
analysis confirmed their validity and reliability in the sports context.
Regression analysis was conducted to examine the predictive relationships between
cognitive flexibility sub-dimensions and decision-making effectiveness.
Results: Regression analysis revealed significant findings. The
“Alternatives” dimension positively predicted effective decision-making in
sports, particularly in external decision-making scenarios (β = 0.207,
t = 5.427, p < 0.001). In contrast, “Control” was a
stronger determinant of intrinsic decision-making (β = 0.210, t
= 5.607, p < 0.001). The R2 values indicated that
cognitive flexibility factors explained 18.1% of the variance in effective
decision-making and 10.9% in intrinsic decision-making, highlighting the need to
explore additional contributing factors. Conclusions: These
findings provide practical implications for coaches and sports psychologists.
Coaches can enhance athletes’ decision-making abilities by fostering a sense of
control and offering diverse alternatives in training and competition. Sports
psychologists may develop interventions to strengthen cognitive flexibility and
perceived control among athletes. The study emphasizes the necessity of a broader
framework for understanding decision-making, suggesting that future research
should explore the interplay of emotional, social and cultural factors in
athletic decision-making. |
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| ISSN: | 1875-6867 1875-6859 |