Menstruation-related Stress, Perceived Support, and Their Impact on High School Female Athletes’ Performance
Yoshito Kudo *
Faculty of Sport Study, Biwako Seikei Sport College, Japan.
Ai Kamikubo
Faculty of Sport Study, Biwako Seikei Sport College, Japan.
Fumihiko Kan
Faculty of Management, Osaka Seikei University, Japan.
Fumiko Okuno
Faculty of Management, Osaka Seikei University, Japan.
Hanae Ito
Never Stop Playing Sports, General Incorporated Association, Tokyo, Japan.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aims: This study aimed to understand the actual conditions of menstrual symptoms among high-school students and examine how the perception of support from others (social support) influences stress related to menstruation and performance.
Study Design: The study used correlation and multiple regression analyses.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at a high school in Osaka, Japan, in October 2024.
Methodology: 96 female high-school athletes filled out an online survey using Google Forms.
Results: The results showed that menstruation-related stress was correlated with athletic performance. Emotional support, especially from friends were effective in alleviating stress. Moreover, support from friends not only reduced stress but also tended to have a positive impact on performance.
Conclusion: Psychological support is an important environmental aspect for female high-school athletes and is expected to not only improve performance but also address various issues in sports activities.
Keywords: Menstruation, stress, female athlete, perceived support