HOW HARDINESS SHOWS ITSELF, THE THOUGHTS AND BEHAVIOURS OF HARDY UNVIERSITY TENNIS PLAYERS

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to qualitatively examine the behaviours of hardy tennis players at university level, with particular insight into the functional appraisal and coping methods associated with hardy individuals. Five university team players participated in semi-structured interviews to discuss certain themes in relation to the role of hardiness in and outside of tennis. Content analysis confirmed previous research in hardiness through illuminating the coping methods associated with hardiness, including effective reflection, the use of social support and psychological skills to cope with stressful situations. The study also found a possible link between courage and self-confidence, with courage stemming from self-confidence generated from being hardy. Strengths and weaknesses of the study, as well as recommendations for future research are also provided.