Author(s): Hazel Mary Raju, Dr. D.M Jyoti
Abstract:
Background: Psychological traits such as emotional intelligence, achievement motivation, and self-esteem are central to athletic development. However, few studies have rigorously compared these factors and their impact on sports achievement between male and female athletes in India. Purpose: This study examines gender differences in key psychological characteristics and sports achievement among college athletes from urban and rural backgrounds. Methods: A cross-sectional sample of 400 college athletes (200 male, 200 female, ages 18–24) participated. Emotional intelligence, achievement motivation, self-esteem, and sports achievement were measured using standardized inventories. Independent samples t-tests compared male and female scores on all variables. Results: Males reported significantly higher emotional intelligence (M = 124.44, SD = 29.44) and self-esteem (M = 28.15, SD = 4.04) than females (EI: M = 118.68, SD = 31.10; SE: M = 27.44, SD = 4.00; both p < 0.05). Females showed slightly higher achievement motivation (M = 25.37, SD = 4.93) compared to males (M = 24.77, SD = 4.60), but this difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Sports Achievement Index scores did not differ significantly by gender. Conclusion: Gender differences are evident in emotional intelligence and self-esteem among Indian college athletes, with males scoring higher on both. These findings highlight the importance of gender-sensitive psychological interventions in collegiate sports.
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