Pilot Study Examining Mindfulness Intervention Effects on Perceived and Objective Stress in Adolescent Basketball Players

Abstract

Stress is a complex factor that significantly affects adolescent athletes, particularly in competitive environments such as basketball. This pilot study examined the effects of an intervention based on mindfulness, acceptance, and commitment on both perceived and objective stress in a group of 31 adolescent basketball players. Participants were divided into a study group (N=17) and a control group (N=14). Only the study group took part in the training program. Both groups completed pre- and post-intervention questionnaires, and salivary cortisol levels were assessed using the ELISA Human Cortisol (Saliva) kit. The results showed a decrease in perceived stress, while cortisol levels remained stable or slightly increased. These findings suggest that adolescent athletes may struggle to accurately identify their actual stress levels, which can impact both performance and psychophysiological health. Therefore, integrating psycho-emotional education and mindfulness-based interventions into athletic training programs is essential for enhancing stress awareness and management among young athletes.