Interpersonal Communication and the Perceived Performance of Adolescent Athletes: Does Peer Relationship matter?

Abstract: The aim of this study was to examine the impact of interpersonal communication on the perceived performance of adolescent athletes. The present research employed a descriptive-correlational design, both in terms of its applied objective and data collection method, which was field-based. The study population consisted of 300 adolescent athletes. The sampling method was purposive and accessible. Four interpersonal relationship questionnaires and one perceived sports performance questionnaire were utilized in this study. For the analysis of the research hypotheses, the structural equation modeling approach using Smart PLS was employed. The findings of the research indicated that coach-athlete, parent-athlete, and teammate-athlete (peer) relationships significantly influence sports performance. However, the impact of the coach-parent relationship on sports performance was not significant. In general, creating a friendly and close atmosphere between coach and athlete, as well as establishing respect, trust, and support between coach and parents, active parental involvement and support in athletes’ sports affairs, and receiving support and enhancing self-esteem from teammates can contribute to the improvement of athletes’ performance and success