Motor ability and personality with reference to soccer injuries
Taimela, S.; Osterman, L.; Kujala, U.; Lehto, M.; Korhonen, T.; Alaranta, H.
Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness 30(2): 194-201
1990
ISSN/ISBN: 0022-4707 PMID: 2402142 Document Number: 367540
Thirty-seven male soccer players performed a series of motor ability tests and answered the Sixteen Personality Factor Questionnaire (the 16PF). A past-injury examination and interview was performed by a physician and occurrence of injuries was followed up prospectively for one year. Stepwise regression analyses revealed significant associations between past injuries and long reaction time as well as personality factors N (astute) and H (shy). We conclude that both weakness of motor abilities, especially long reaction time, and a specific personality type may predispose a player to soccer injuries.