Breaking the Fear Cycle: How Irrational Beliefs Contribute to Sports Injury Anxiety in Volleyball Players

Abstract

Injury anxiety is a pressing psychological issue in high-impact sports like volleyball. This study examines how irrational beliefs—such as demandingness, awfulizing, low frustration tolerance, and self-depreciation—contribute to injury-related anxiety. The study comprised 40 volleyball athletes competing at regional and national levels. Participants were recruited from university teams, sports academies, and local volleyball clubs. Inclusion criteria required that athletes be actively competing and have experienced injury-related concerns in their playing history. Exclusion criteria included athletes currently undergoing psychological treatment for anxiety or those with severe injuries preventing participation in volleyball. All participants completed the Irrational Beliefs Scale (IBS) and the Sports Injury Anxiety Scale (SIAS). The analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between irrational beliefs and injury anxiety. Players with higher irrational thinking reported greater anxiety about potential injuries, especially those prone to catastrophizing. These findings highlight the importance of cognitive restructuring techniques to reduce anxiety and enhance mental resilience in athletes.