Andrii Levchenko
graduate student. National University of Civil Protection of Ukraine.
ORCID 0009-0008-6465-6398
DOI - https://doi.org/10.52363/dcpp-2024.2.6
Keywords: envy, sports activity, self-esteem, motivation, social determinants.
The relevance of the study of the problem of the influence of envy on the efficiency of an athlete is due to the fact that coaches, sports psychologists and the athletes themselves are fully aware of the mechanisms of the occurrence of this phenomenon and its consequences for interpersonal and team interaction. The level of envy and its manifestations may vary depending on the individual psychological characteristics of the athletes, the type of sport (team or individual) and the social environment in which they function. It is especially important to consider the differences between professional athletes and amateurs, as those groups who may perceive success and failure differently.
The problem with envy also lies in its ability to undermine a strong bond of trust between athletes. Incorrectly managed envious feelings can provoke conflicts, cause anxiety and tension in the team. In such conditions, the task of the coach and sports psychologist becomes not only the development of technical skills, but also the maintenance of psychological balance within the teams. Knowledge of the socio-psychological determinants of envy will allow the development of a strategy to prevent negative consequences and optimize emotional support for the team.
As a result of the conducted theoretical analysis, it was proved that envy is of a controversial nature, which is formed under the influence of both psychological and social factors. Self-esteem, anxiety and different types of motivation are psychological determinants of the formation of envy in sportsmen. As for social factors, it is usually the role of the coach, athlete’s social status in the team and a type of sport he or she does.
The obtained results indicate that envy can significantly affect team interaction in sports. Constructive envy can increase the athlete's motivation, stimulating him to improve his own results. Athletes who use envy as a source of inspiration are often overachieving. Destructive jealousy undermines team cohesion and can become a bone of contention between athletes. It can also lead to emotional burnout and reduced motivation, which affects athletic performance.
The study demonstrated that envy in athletes depends on a number of socio-psychological factors. Unequal distribution of the coach's attention and low social status are the root causes of envy, especially in team sports. High self-esteem and internal motivation help reduce intense emotions and promote effective team interaction.
Further research can be aimed at developing the specialization of coaches and athletes to manage emotional states.