Comparison of Optimism Levels and Life Stress Levels Among NCAA Division I Athletes and Non-Athletes

Researchers suggest that optimistic individuals approach life situations with the belief that outcomes will be favorable, and are more likely to exhibit better coping mechanisms when dealing with adversity and stress (Carver, & Scheier, 1987; Karadeaus, Karvelis, Argyropoulou, 2007). Moreover, the cognitive adaptation theory suggests that optimistic individuals are more likely to make appropriate cognitive adaptations to stressful situations (Lightsey, 1994; Alloy & Clements, 1992). Results concerning athletic status, gender, optimism, and stress are mixed. The purpose of this study was to compare athletes and non athletes and gender on optimism and life stress. The present study will utilize the Life Orientation Test-Revised, measuring optimism and the Undergraduate Stress Questionnaire, measuring life stress. The results will be analyzed using three independent t-tests with an alpha level set at .016 utilizing the Bonferroni adjustment technique. Discussion to take place will be between optimism and stress levels, athletic status, and gender.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science in Kinesiology (M.S.)

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis (open access)

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Department of Health and Kinesiology

Year dc:date.available

2008

Author dc:creator

• Shearman, Eleanor Kate

Contributors dc:contributor

• Glenn P. Burdette III
• A. Barry Joyner
• Jonathan N. Metzler

• ETD
• Optimism
• Life stress
• Collegiate athletes
• College athletes

Repository record dc:identifier

https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/etd/86

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu:etd-1086