A Descriptive Examination of Perceived Stress and Coping Among Athletic Trainers Employed in the National Collegiate Athletic Association

Authors

Stephanie M. Singe, University of Connecticut, Storrs
Elisabeth M. McKenna, University of Connecticut, Storrs
Alexandrya Cairns, Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven
Christianne Eason, Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven

Keywords

Vitality of The Profession

Abstract

Time and work demands are high for the collegiatea athletic trainer, which can increase work stress and burnout may result. High perceived levels of stress and burnout can impact an athletic trainer’s mental health and wellness. Data were collected via an online descriptive, cross-sectional survey (Qualtrics) examining the perceived stress and coping strategies used among athletic trainers employed in the collegiate setting. Respondents completed the pereceived stress scale (ɑ=.90), and a series of close-ended questions related to their self-reported strategy of coping. Data was collected during September of 2022. We had 987 (men 371, women 607, did not disclose 9) college athletic trainers complete the questionnaire (17% response rate). The questionnaire consisted of 18 demographic questions; 16 Likert scale questions regarding quality of life, sleep, and coping, and the validated periecved stress scale (10 items). Results indicate that females, married individuals, and those who have children report significantly higher levels of perceived stress when compared to their respective counterparts. Athletic trainers who identify as using problem-solving coping skills reported significantly lower levels of perceived stress. Athletic trainers who self-identify as using avoidance as coping strategies report significantly lower levels of perceived stress. Finally, athletic trainers who report reframing the stressor as a coping strategy report significantly lower levels of perceived stress. Developing effective coping strategies is an important skill for athletic trainers to help reduce work stress, as stress can have a negative impact on mental health.

First Page

9

Recommended Citation

Singe, Stephanie M.; McKenna, Elisabeth M.; Cairns, Alexandrya; and Eason, Christianne (2024) "A Descriptive Examination of Perceived Stress and Coping Among Athletic Trainers Employed in the National Collegiate Athletic Association," Clinical Practice in Athletic Training: Vol. 7: Iss. 4, Article 2.
Available at: https://scholars.indianastate.edu/clinat/vol7/iss4/2