Relationship between self-efficacy and stress among taekwondo coaches: mediating effect of social support

BACKGROUND: This study aims to examine how social support affects the relationship between self-efficacy and perceived stress in taekwondo.METHODS: In 2022, 212 individuals who completed their registration as coaches in the Korean Taekwondo Association participated in the study. An online survey assessed participants' self-efficacy, social support, and perceived stress. Data analyses included frequency analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, correlational analysis, and mediation analysis, which were conducted using SPSS 24.0, AMOS 24.0 and the PROCESS Macro.RESULTS: Self-efficacy had a significant negative effect on perceived stress. Self-efficacy reduced stress by mediating social support from supervisors and coworkers; in contrast, social support from friends and family was not a significant mediator.CONCLUSIONS: Based on the theory of self-efficacy, we can understand the variables that reduce stress among sports leaders and suggest meaningful practical applications.