The Role of Psychological Flexibility, Self-Control, and Self-Differentiation in Predicting Nomophobia among Student Athletes
Subject Areas : Research Journal of Sociological of SportHosein Ebrahimi Moghadam 1 , Mana Elyasi 2 * , Sadegh Khodamoradi 3
1 -
2 - Master of Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, Islamic Azad University, Roudehen Branch, Iran.
3 - Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences and Psychology, Islamic Azad University, South Tehran Branch, Tehran, Iran
Keywords: Nomophobia, psychological flexibility, self-regulation, differentiation, Athletes,
Abstract :
Introduction: The aim of this study was to examine the role of psychological flexibility, self-control, and self-differentiation in predicting nomophobia among student athletes. Methods: This study was descriptive-correlational in nature and applied in terms of its objective. The statistical population consisted of all student athletes from universities in Tehran during the 2024–2025 academic year. A total of 280 participants (157 females and 123 males) were selected using a convenience sampling method. Data were collected using the Nomophobia Questionnaire, the Psychological Flexibility Questionnaire, the Self-Control Scale, and the Self-Differentiation Scale. The data were analyzed using LISREL software and multiple regression analysis Results: The data analysis revealed that psychological flexibility, self-control, and self-differentiation were all significant predictors of nomophobia. Specifically, lower levels of these psychological traits were associated with higher levels of nomophobia among student athletes Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that psychological capabilities such as flexibility, self-control, and self-differentiation play a significant role in reducing anxiety related to digital disconnection. Enhancing these traits can improve psychological adaptation and help prevent nomophobia among student athletes. Therefore, designing and implementing psychological interventions in sports and university settings is recommended.
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