The Direct and Indirect Effects of Irrational Beliefs on Perceived Performance: The Mediation Role of Emotions and Automatic Thoughts

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between irrational beliefs and perceived performance and the atemporal mediator role of emotions and automatic thoughts in this relationship. A cross-sectional study design with a convenient sampling method was used in the study. Participants included 395 athletes from basketball, football, handball, and volleyball and consisted of 267 male (Mage = 20.73, SD = 2.37) and 128 female (Mage = 21.33, SD = 2.17) athletes who voluntarily participated in the study. Data was analyzed via a path analysis and irrational beliefs were shown to negatively predict positive emotions and positive automatic thoughts, but these beliefs positively predicted negative emotions and negative automatic thoughts. The direct effect of irrational beliefs on perceived performance was not significant, but its indirect effect on perceived performance through emotions and automatic thoughts was significant. Irrational beliefs negatively predict perceived performance through emotions and automatic thoughts. It is concluded that emotions and automatic thoughts play a significant role in the relationship between irrational beliefs and perceived performance.