Rumination and emotion regulation as mediators between mindfulness and self-assessed sport performance

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine the role of emotion regulation and rumination in the relationship between dispositional mindfulness and self-assessed performance. A total of 89 soccer players (72 male, 17 women; Mage = 28.75, SD =3.283 years) participated. A quantitative longitudinal design (three-time measures within a four-week period) was conducted where the independent and dependent variables, as well as the two potential mediators were measured using Rumination Reflection Questionnaire, Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale, Athlete Mindfulness Questionnaire and Sport Performance Questionnaire. The results showed a significant indirect effect of dispositional mindfulness on self-assessed performance through both emotion regulation and rumination. These findings indicate that emotion regulation and rumination mediate the relationship between dispositional mindfulness and self-assessed performance in the examined sample. Findings are to be taken with caution given the homogeneous sample of athletes considered and the use of a subjective measure of performance. Further research should focus on a more targeted group and use a more objective performance measure, as well as a sport specific rumination scale.