Examining the psychological characteristics of developing excellence profiles of male English youth soccer players: differences across ages and performance levels

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate differences in PCDEs across different age groups (U13, U14, U15, U16 and youth team) and categories of participation (Categories 1, 2 and 3 at academy level, and grassroots) in male English youth soccer players (n = 375). Data were gathered using the PCDE questionnaire version 2 (PCDEQ2). Differences between age groups and categories of participation were analysed using the Kruskal–Wallis H test. Across age groups, highest differences were reported in perfectionistic tendencies (d = .57, p = <0.01) and adverse response to failure (d = .49, p = <0.01), with youth team players reporting the highest scores. Across categories of participation highest differences in PCDEs were observed in perfectionistic tendencies (d = .64, p = <0.01), self-directed control and management (d = .63, p = <0.01) and adverse response to failure (d = .58, p = <0.01), with Category 1 players reporting the highest scores. Youth team and Category 1 players also demonstrated the highest scores in the use of imagery and active preparation, with Category 1 players also demonstrating the highest and lowest score on the use of active coping strategies and presentation of clinical indicators, respectively. The findings of the current study have important implications for key stakeholders involved in the planning and monitoring of a player’s talent development environment. Careful consideration should be given to identifying and developing players’ psychological characteristics to ensure positive nurturing throughout their journey.