Aggression level and self-efficacy in karate practitioners as a leisure-time motor activity

Abstract Aim. The investigation of aggressiveness and self-efficacy in karate practitioners as a leisure time activity, as well as in people practicing other types of leisure motor activities. Material and method. The study was carried out on a sample of 45 people (19-51 years old), almost half of whom practiced karate as a leisure activity. The participants answered two questionnaires on aggression and self-efficacy. Data were also collected on the number of hours practiced over a week. Statistical analyses were performed using descriptive statistics, difference (t test, U test) and correlation (Spearman) tests. Results. The level of aggression is significantly lower in karate as a leisure activity compared to other study participants. Analysis of gender differences revealed that female participants have higher levels than male participants for anger and hostility, verbal aggression and physical aggression, and for self-efficacy male practitioners have slightly increased levels compared to female participants. Through correlation analysis statistically significant relationships were reported between anger and verbal aggression, hostility and verbal aggression, respectively. The data analysis was completed with the interpretation of marginally significant differences according to the number of hours practiced per week, so that it was observed that the higher the level of self-efficacy, the more hours of karate practiced per week by the participants. Conclusions. Karate practitioners (as a leisure-time motor activity) are better able to control their reactions and emotions compared to those practicing other leisure motor activities.