Differences in Collegiate Athletes' Happiness Indicators Levels: A Perspective on Quality of Life and Sports Environment Factors
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Abstract
This study was aimed at identifying differences in quality of life and happiness indicators among collegiate athletes and to examine the variations in training and competition experiences across different sports and levels of happiness indicators. Participants included 332 athletes who took part in the Thailand University Games in 2025. The athletes were divided into individual athletes (n = 166) and team athletes (n = 166). The research utilized the WHOQOL–BREF–THAI, which encompasses physical health, psychological health, social relationships, environmental health, and Thai happiness indicators. Data was collected through an online questionnaire, which took approximately 20 minutes to complete and was administered only once to each participant. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Pearson’s Chi-squared test, Wilcoxon Signed Rank test, and Fisher’s exact test. Results indicated a significant correlation between happiness indicators and levels of physical health, mental health, social relationships, environmental quality, and overall quality of life (p < 0.001). However, no significant differences were found between individual and team athletes regarding the quality of life and happiness indicators (p > 0.05). Additionally, significant differences were observed in the training and competition experiences between team and individual athletes (p < 0.05). Therefore, Educational institutions and agencies supporting athlete development should prioritize enhancing the quality of life to boost happiness levels for individual and team athletes.
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