Experiences of Female Athletes in Managing Psychological Pressures from Social and Family Expectations

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to explore the psychological pressures faced by female athletes in managing the expectations of family and society, focusing on how they cope with these challenges.

Methods and Materials: A qualitative research design was employed, using semi-structured interviews to collect data from 29 female athletes. Participants were selected from various sports disciplines in Iran, with ages ranging from 18 to 35 years. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key themes related to the athletes' experiences of psychological pressure, social support, and the intersection of personal aspirations with familial and societal expectations. The interviews were conducted until theoretical saturation was reached.

Findings: The findings revealed three primary themes: (1) Social Support: Athletes with strong family and social networks reported better coping mechanisms, though conflicting family expectations sometimes led to increased stress; (2) Mental Toughness: Female athletes with higher mental toughness showed greater resilience to external pressures, which helped them balance athletic and personal responsibilities; (3) Tension Between Personal and Familial Expectations: Many athletes experienced a conflict between pursuing their athletic goals and fulfilling family roles, particularly in contexts where societal norms prioritized family over career ambitions. These pressures were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which added additional stress to already demanding circumstances.

Conclusion: Female athletes face complex psychological pressures from both societal and familial expectations, which can impact their mental well-being and performance. The findings suggest the importance of social support and mental toughness in coping with these pressures. Further interventions and strategies should focus on strengthening social support networks, building mental resilience, and addressing societal norms that hinder female athletes' ability to balance their athletic careers and personal lives.