| This study examined the association between goal orientations
and mental toughness and its influence on performance outcomes in
competition. Wushu athletes (n = 40) competing in Intervarsity championships
in Malaysia completed Task and Ego Orientations in Sport Questionnaire
(TEOSQ) and Psychological Performance Inventory (PPI). Using cluster
analysis techniques including hierarchical methods and the non-hierarchical
method (k-means cluster) to examine goal profiles, a three cluster
solution emerged viz. cluster 1 - high task and moderate ego (HT/ME),
cluster 2 - moderate task and low ego (MT/LE) and, cluster 3 - moderate
task and moderate ego (MT/ME). Analysis of the fundamental areas of
mental toughness based on goal profiles revealed that athletes in
cluster 1 scored significantly higher on negative energy control than
athletes in cluster 2. Further, athletes in cluster 1 also scored
significantly higher on positive energy control than athletes in cluster
3. Chi-square (χ2) test revealed no significant differences among
athletes with different goal profiles on performance outcomes in the
competition. However, significant differences were observed between
athletes (medallist and non medallist) in self- confidence (p = 0.001)
and negative energy control (p = 0.042). Medallist's scored significantly
higher on self-confidence (mean = 21.82 ± 2.72) and negative energy
control (mean = 19.59 ± 2.32) than the non-medallists (self confidence-mean
= 18.76 ± 2.49; negative energy control mean = 18.14 ± 1.91).
KEY
WORDS: Goal orientation, mental toughness, performance outcome.
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