Noncognitive Predictors of Student Athletes' Academic Performance

This study of 200 Division I athletes examined the role of four noncognitive variables in predicting academic performance. Using a paper and pencil Likert scale instrument the noncognitive variables, athletic-academic commitment, feelings of being exploited, academic self-worth, self-handicapping excuses as well as several background and academic preparation variables were studied as predictors of academic performance. All four noncognitive variables were found to be significant and independent predictors of academic performance. Student athletes' relative athletic-academic identification and achievement motivation play important roles in student athletes' academic performance.