Impact of Fixed and Growth Mindsets on Social Maturity and Emotional Adjustment Among Young Athletes

Abstract

An individual’s mindset forms the psychological framework that influences how athletes perceive challenges, cope with setbacks, apply effort, and interpret success. In the sports context, a strong mindset is as crucial as physical skill, as it sustains motivation, supports continued improvement, and helps athletes overcome obstacles. According to Havighurst (1972), social maturity refers to an individual’s ability to meet societal expectations and perform age-appropriate social roles responsibly. Crow and Crow (1956) describe emotional adjustment as the capacity to face life’s pressures with appropriate emotional responses, maintaining stability and preventing prolonged distress. Athletes with a fixed mindset tend to believe their abilities are innate and unchangeable, often avoiding challenges and withdrawing when confronted with difficulties. In contrast, athletes with a growth mindset hold that performance can be improved through effort, practice, and learning, viewing setbacks as opportunities for development. In the present study, a Psychological Intervention Training Programme of four weeks’ duration, conducted three days per week was implemented to enhance the psychological competencies of the participants. The study investigated whether athletes with fixed and growth mindsets differ in social maturity, emotional adjustment, and personal integration. A sample of 72 athletes residing in sports hostels in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, was evaluated using the Implicit Theory of Intelligence Questionnaire developed by Carol Dweck (1999). Social Maturity and Emotional Adjustment were assessed using the Social Adjustment Scale by Weissman and Bothwell (2006). Dependent t-test and ANCOVA were applied to determine significant differences between the groups. The analysis revealed no statistically significant differences in emotional adjustment or social maturity between athletes with fixed and growth mindsets.

Keywords
Fixed Mindset, Growth Mindset, Social Maturity and Emotional Adjustment