A qualitative study on the optimal experience of De La Salle University student-athletes in team sports

• Main Authors: Dator, Carmella L., Guiang, Hannalyn Joy G., Catabijan, Carlo Magno D.
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 2013
• Subjects: College athletes > Philippines > Psychology; Sports > Psychological aspects; Psychology
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etd_bachelors/6539
• Institution: De La Salle University

The growing field of sport psychology has led to the study of optimal experience which is one of the many positive subjective experiences felt by individuals engaging in sports. Literature points out the complexity of optimal experience by providing several definitions and factors which contribute and hamper the experience. The study was done through a qualitative research method and the sample consisted of 12 (6 males and 6 females) student-athletes from De La Salle University who are currently part of team sports. Results showed that optimal experience is defined as an all-out performance which athletes associated with happiness and other positive emotions. The most prominent factors that help in attaining the experience are coaches, feedback from fans and positive mindset whereas, the most evident factors that inhibit the experience are negative mindset and complacency. Results as well as other research implications and suggestions are further discussed throughout the entire study.