PSYCHOLOGICAL INTERVENTION AND VOLLEYBALL PERFORMANCE AMONG UNIVERSITY ATHLETES

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between psychological skills and competitive performance among university volleyball players in Pakistan. Using a cross-sectional survey design, 250 players (62% male; Mage = 21.6 years, SD = 2.4) from the University of the Education, Lahore and University of the Punjab, Lahore completed a 28-item expert-validated instrument assessing nine psychological dimensions: imagery, mental preparation, self-confidence, anxiety management, concentration, relaxation, motivation, team cohesion, and pre-competition routine. Chi-square analysis, independent samples t-tests, and one-way ANOVA were applied. Strong positive profiles were identified across all dimensions: 88.0% endorsed systematic performance analysis, 86.8% affirmed team cohesion enhanced performance, 85.2% reported high motivational readiness, and 84.8% felt mentally prepared before competition. No significant differences emerged by gender (t(248) = −0.844, p = .530) or age group (F(2, 247) = 1.104, p = .618). Two areas warranted targeted intervention: calming self-efficacy (Q17: 30% neutral) and structured self-talk use (Q27: lowest endorsement). Findings support integration of formalised psychological skills training into Pakistani university volleyball programmes.