Commitment and emotion in the sports performance of young talents: a cross-sectional analysis of key psychological variables

Sport psychology is relevant due to the influence of psychological factors on the performance of young athletes; however, there is limited research that integrates emotional maturity, psychological characteristics associated with performance, and sport commitment. The objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between a multidimensional psychological profile and various psychosocial-sport conditions in young athletic talents. A cross-sectional design was employed with a sample of 51 athletes aged between 14 and 24 years. Participants completed the Psychological Characteristics associated with Sport Performance Questionnaire (CPRD), the Arruza Emotional Intelligence Scale, and the Sport Commitment Questionnaire (SCQ-e). Data analysis included descriptive statistics, inferential tests (Student’s t-test and ANOVA), and correlational analyses using Pearson’s coefficient. The results showed high levels of commitment (91.3/100) and enjoyment (92.7/100), as well as significant correlations between enjoyment and commitment (r = 0.812; p < 0.001) and between self-control and stress control (r = 0.740; p < 0.001). Additionally, significant differences were identified according to sport categories and professional aspirations. The findings highlight the relevance of affective-motivational components in athletic development and underscore the need to implement early psychological interventions in sport training processes.