Examining the Relationship Between Fear of Failure in Sports and Stress Coping Strategies Among Sports High School Students

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the relationship between fear of failure in sport and stress coping strategies among sports high school students. A correlational survey design was employed. The population comprised students enrolled at Siirt Sports High School during the 2025–2026 academic year, and the sample consisted of 175 voluntary participants. Data were collected using the Personal Information Form, Stress Coping Methods Scale, and Performance Failure Assessment Inventory. Descriptive statistics, independent-samples t-test, one-way ANOVA, and Pearson correlation analysis were used, with significance set at p<.05. No significant relationship was found between stress coping strategies and the sub-dimensions of fear of failure in sport. No significant differences were observed in either scale according to gender or grade level. For age, a significant difference was found only in seeking support, with students aged 18 and over scoring higher than those aged 16–17. For sport discipline, a significant difference was found only in problem-solving, with basketball players scoring higher than volleyball players. Regarding sporting experience, significant differences were found in the FUF and FLISO sub-dimensions, whereas stress coping sub-dimensions did not differ significantly. In conclusion, fear of failure in sport was not significantly associated with stress coping strategies among students. However, certain sub-dimensions showed limited differences according to age, sport discipline, and sporting experience.