Correlation and comparative analysis of the relationship between state anxiety and dimensions of aggressiveness in martial arts

Background and Study Aim. Martial arts performance depends not only on technical and physical abilities but also on effective emotional regulation under competitive pressure. State anxiety and aggressiveness represent two key psychological constructs that influence behavioral control, decision-making and interpersonal dynamics in combat sports. Although both factors are known to affect performance, their interrelationship and the potential discrepancies between athletes’ self-perceptions and coaches’ evaluations remain insufficiently explored. This study aimed to investigate the correlational and comparative relationships between state anxiety and dimensions of aggressiveness in martial arts athletes. It also examined the differences between athletes’ self-reported anxiety and the perceptions of coaches. Material and methods. Sixty martial arts athletes participated in this cross-sectional study. State anxiety was assessed using the Endler Multidimensional Anxiety Scales – Trait (EMAS-T). Aggression-related