A study of grit among para sportspersons correlates and predictors

Abstract

Grit is a relatively novel construct in the realm of positive psychology, which is considered as a non-cognitive trait, representing an individual s relentless pursuit of a long-term goal, despite adversities. Based on the emphasis of grit on overcoming challenges, the present study assumed that grit would tend to play an especially crucial role in the lives of those people, who despite physical disabilities, dare to venture into the competitive arena of sports. These sportspersons, thereby, not only challenge all stereotypes associated with disability, but also the notion of sports symbolizing physical perfection. The present study, hence, was an attempt to examine grit, its correlates and predictors amongst para sportspersons, playing at the national level. Results revealed that though all three groups under study were quite gritty, but Welch s t-test indicated that sportspersons without disabilities were most gritty. Moreover, sportspersons, whether disabled or able-bodied exhibited more similarities than differences, reiterating only the role of sports in inculcating grit amongst them, but also supporting the fact that grit is a malleable construct, which can be instilled. Correlational analysis revealed that gritty para sportspersons tended to be conscientious, extraverted, agreeable, emotionally balanced, self-regulated, intrinsically motivated and socially supported, in addition to being grateful, joyful and enthusiastic. Also, para sportspersons portrayed an amalgamated correlational profile. Regression analysis interestingly brought out a distinctive set of predictors of grit for all the three groups, with self- regulation, conscientiousness, presence of drive and lack of external regulation, emerging as significant predictors. The present study not only had implications for sports authorities, and government agencies, especially those dealing with para sportspersons, but also for parents, educationists and society, in general, to inculcate grit amongst children and head towards an inclusive society.