The COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected the social and psychological functioning of young athletes, transforming their daily lives and challenging them to maintain motivation or goals. The study focused on analysing the gains and losses of psychological resources (according to Hobfoll's theory of resource behaviour) and their relationship to achievement motivation during the pandemic. Participants were athletes (N=81) aged 19-24 years, participating in individual and team sports. The Sport Orientation Questionnaire (SOQ) and an abbreviated version of the COR-E questionnaire to assess resources were used. Results showed that despite the loss of resources - especially hedonic resources, prestige and power - athletes showed high goal motivation and a strong competitive orientation, especially among men. During pandemic constraints, family resources played a key role in the lives of the athletes studied. As a time of loss and forced reorganisation of life, the pandemic highlighted the importance of social support and psychological resilience in maintaining sporting activity. The findings of the study are part of a discussion on the global challenges to health and well-being, during periods of social crises. The results provide a starting point for further reflection on the mechanisms for rebuilding resources and enhancing young people's motivation through physical activity in a post-pandemic environment.
Book of Abstracts [Unofficial – Accepted Presentation, Abstract Submission Ongoing]
Athlete Motivation in Crisis: An Analysis of Psychological Resources in Terms of Hobfoll's Theory