A Grounded Theory of the Psychological Foundations of Soccer Performance

Authors

  • Spyridon Plakias Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala
  • Olga Moustou Department of psychology and sociology, City Unity College, Athens
  • Georgia Karakitsiou Department of Psychiatry, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis
  • Charoula Kasioura Department of Biomedical Sciences and School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Athens
  • Fotios Xylomenos School of Physical Education and Sport Science, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki
  • Anna Tsiakiri Department of Neurology, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7251/SSH2502159P

Keywords:

football, psychological factors, sports psychology, athletes’ development, review, qualitative research

Abstract

This study employed a Grounded Theory approach to synthesize the existing literature on the psychological factors that influence soccer players’ performance and career development. A total of 22 review articles were considered suitable for the creation of this theory. Atlas.ti.24 software was used for qualitative analysis. A total of 146 codes were encoded and grouped into six key categories: Psychological Traits and States, Cognitive and Perceptual Skills, Emotional and Stress Management, Social and Environmental Influences, Health, Wellness, and Lifestyle, and Performance and Skill Development. The resulting Grounded Theory explains the complex interplay between these psychological dimensions and their impact on soccer performance. This study emphasizes the importance of holistic athlete development by integrating psychological skills training with physical and technical preparation. This comprehensive framework offers valuable insights for coaches, sports psychologists, and researchers by suggesting targeted interventions to optimize player performance and support long-term career success. This theory underscores the need for individualized approaches to psychological training and the integration of mental health considerations in soccer development programs. While limited by its focus on review articles and the exclusion of primary studies, this research provides a foundation for future empirical investigations and practical applications in soccer psychology. The study concluded that psychological factors are integral to soccer performance, are equal in importance to physical and tactical elements, and should be systematically incorporated into training and development strategies.
Keywords: football, psychological factors, sp

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Published

2026-01-04

Issue

Vol. 32 No. 2 (2025): SPORTS SCIENCE AND HEALTH

Section

Чланци