Relationship between Family Functioning and Mental Toughness in Paralympics Athletes

The aim of this research was to study the relationship between family functioning and mental toughness in Paralympic athletes. This is a descriptive and correlational research. The sample statistics comprises 50 athletes who have competed in the London 2012 Paralympic Games. Data were measured using two questionnaires: Sport Mental Toughness Questionnaire Golby and Sheard, and 45-factor Family Functioning Questionnaire. Reliability and validity of both questionnaires had been confirmed in previous studies. The results showed that there is a significant positive relationship between family functioning and mental toughness in Paralympics athletes. The three dimensions of family functioning were significant predictor variables in determining mental toughness. The findings revealed the importance of family functioning in the formation of mental toughness.