The coping strategies employed by Tunisian football referees and assistant referees in terms of gender, role specialization, and degree

Abstract

This study examines the profile of coping strategies employed by Tunisian football referees and assistant referees, considering gender, role specialization, and professional rank. Ninety-four participants (mean age = 25.78 years, SD = 6.23) affiliated with the Tunisian Football Federation completed the Arabic version of the Inventory of Coping Strategies in Sports Competitions (ICSCS) after officiating matches. ICSCS assesses 10 coping strategies: mental imagery, thought control, effort expenditure, seeking support, relaxation, logical analysis, venting unpleasant emotions, disengagement, social withdrawal, and mental distraction. The results reveal significant differences in coping strategies based on gender, role specialization, and rank. Male referees tend to favor task-focused strategies, such as logical analysis and effort, whereas female referees often employ emotional strategies, including social support and relaxation (p < .05). Assistant referees resort more frequently to disengagement strategies than main referees (p < .01). Higher-ranked referees prefer problem-focused strategies over avoidance strategies (p < .05). These results highlight the multidimensional nature of coping among football officials and underscore the importance of tailored interventions to optimize their psychological preparation and performance. The study also sheds light on gender-specific challenges and coping mechanisms, particularly among female referees, while contributing to filling a critical gap in sports psychology.