Where’s the Fire? An Exploratory Study of Athlete Burnout in Division III Cross-Country Runners

Abstract

The purpose of this exploratory study was to examine associations between psychosocial factors (motivational orientations, perceived stress, depressive symptoms, and athletic identity) and burnout among cross-country runners. Surveys were administered to 182 male and female cross-country runners from five Midwest universities prior to a scheduled practice time. Statistical analyses included Pearson correlation, scale reliability, and multiple linear regressions. Analyses revealed that higher levels of amotivation were related to higher levels of all indices of burnout, while higher levels of external regulation were related to lower levels of a reduced sense of accomplishment. Perceived stress and depressive symptoms were associated with greater levels of burnout, while athletes with a higher athlete identity were related to lower levels of sport devaluation. Results suggest that motivational orientations, stress, depressive symptoms, and athlete identity were related to burnout. Future studies should continue to examine factors related to burnout