EXPLORING THE IMPACT OF FAMILY FUNCTIONING ON ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION IN ADOLESCENT ATHLETES

Abstract

Research Purpose: This study aims to investigate the relationship between family functioning and its impact on anxiety and depression among adolescent athletes. Research Method: A survey was conducted among adolescent athletes experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression within a defined region. Descriptive statistics were employed to analyze responses, and multiple linear regression was used to assess the correlation between family functioning and levels of anxiety and depression. Research Results: The study revealed significant deficiencies across various dimensions of family functioning in adolescents with heightened levels of anxiety and depression. Notably, there was a direct relationship between the severity of depression and anxiety scores and the deterioration in family functioning scores. Key dimensions such as family cohesion and adaptability were found to decline as the mental health of adolescents worsened. This suggests that deteriorations in family dynamics, such as reduced emotional support and poor conflict resolution, are associated with increased levels of anxiety and depression among adolescent athletes. Conclusion: The findings highlight the critical role of family dynamics in the mental health of adolescent athletes. Enhancing family functioning could potentially serve as a therapeutic target to mitigate anxiety and depression in this population, emphasizing the need for family-centered interventions in sports mental health strategies