AN EXAMINATION OF SELF-EFFICACY, HAPPINESS, AND STRESS LEVELS OF INDIVIDUALS ENGAGED IN PICKLEBALL ACTIVITIES RECREATIONALLY IN THE SOUTHEASTERN ANATOLIA REGION

Authors : Mihraç Köroğlu, Nuri Muhammet Çelik, Burcu Yentürk, Fikret Soyer

Pages : 83-102

Doi:10.33689/spormetre.1696644

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Publication Date : 2025-12-30

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Recreational sports like Pickleball are increasingly recognized for their role in enhancing psychological well-being. However, research examining their psychosocial impact in regional contexts such as Southeastern Türkiye remains limited. This study aimed to investigate the self-efficacy, happiness, and stress levels of individuals participating in recreational Pickleball activities and to explore their associations with sociodemographic characteristics. A total of 494 individuals (248 females, 246 males) from five provinces participated in this quantitative study. Data were collected using the General Self-Efficacy Scale, Oxford Happiness Questionnaire–Short Form, Perceived Stress Scale, and a demographic information form. Analyses were conducted with SPSS 23 using parametric (t-test, ANOVA) and non-parametric (Mann–Whitney U, Kruskal–Wallis H) tests based on data distribution (p < .05). Results showed that self-efficacy levels significantly differed by age, residence, occupation, Pickleball involvement, and exercise history. Happiness levels were associated with gender, age, province, occupation, and activity duration, while stress levels varied based on province, occupation, and sport frequency. These findings highlight the importance of sociodemographic factors—especially age, residence, and income status—in shaping psychological outcomes through recreational sports. The results may offer valuable insights for both academic research and the design of inclusive, well-being-focused sport programs in underserved regions.
Keywords : Pickleball, Özyeterlilik, Mutluluk, Stres

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