Emotional Intelligence, Sports Self-efficacy and Happiness among Secondary School Athletes in Kampala District.

Abstract

This study investigates the relationships between emotional intelligence, sports self-efficacy, and happiness among secondary school athletes in Kampala District. The research aims to explore four key hypotheses: (1) there is a significant positive relationship between emotional intelligence and happiness, (2) a significant positive relationship exists between emotional intelligence and sports self-efficacy, (3) sports self-efficacy is positively related to happiness, and (4) sports self-efficacy mediates the relationship between emotional intelligence and happiness. Using a quantitative approach and a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 217 secondary school athletes selected purposively. The findings confirm all four hypotheses, revealing that emotional intelligence significantly contributes to both happiness and sports self-efficacy, while sports self-efficacy independently enhances happiness. Additionally, sports self-efficacy plays a mediating role in the relationship between emotional intelligence and happiness, suggesting that individuals with higher emotional intelligence are likely to develop greater confidence in their sports abilities, which in turn leads to higher levels of happiness. These results underscore the importance of fostering both emotional intelligence and sports self-efficacy to promote well-being in young athletes. The study concludes that interventions aimed at enhancing emotional intelligence and sports self-efficacy could be highly effective in increasing happiness and life satisfaction. Recommendations include incorporating emotional intelligence training into educational and sports programs, as well as developing strategies to build sports self-efficacy through goal setting, positive feedback, and supportive coaching. These approaches could contribute to more holistic development and greater well-being among secondary school athletes.