Resilience in Sports: A Qualitative Discussion on Risk Factors and Protective Factors among Performance Development (Pd) Athletes

Abstract

Athletes who reach a developed performance level, faced various challenges and difficulties, but they are still able to remain resilient. This study was conducted to explore the aspects of resilience among athletes within Performance Development (PD) category. Focused group discussions using semi-structured interview based on Multilevel Classification System for Sport Psychology (MCS-SP) model were conducted on 20 Perak state athletes who were undergoing Malaysia Sports Game 2021 (SUKMA) preparation program. The results of the study found five themes related to risk factors faced by athletes in maintaining developing performance such as performance, change, behavior, psychology and interpersonal issues. The study suggested that acceptance and commitment as part of psychological protective factors that help athletes maintain resilience. The study also produced a model of resilience among PD athletes which can be used as a reference in sports training programs.