Abstract:
This study examined the relationships between primary and secondary control strategies,
coping, and superstitious behaviour. Participants were 349 student-athletes from the UK and
Ghana, consisting of 194 males and 155 females. The nationality breakdown was 177
British student-athletes and 172 Ghanaian student-athletes. Participants completed five
inventories measuring superstitious behaviours, personal control, control strategies, coping
skills, and social desirability. Sequential multiple regression analysis was used to determine
the relationship between these constructs. A 2 by 2 analysis of covariance was conducted to
assess the main and interactive effects of gender and nationality on superstitious behaviour.
Findings demonstrated that personal control, coping mechanisms, and control strategies
predicted superstitious behaviour. The findings suggest that athletes may engage in
superstitious behaviour as a coping mechanism and as a secondary control strategy to offer
them a sense of being in control in stressful situations. The results suggest that Ghanaian
student-athletes may engage in superstitious behaviour more than British student-athletes.
Results are discussed in relation to previous research and practical implications are delineated.
