Perceived stress levels and stressors in adolescent footballers from an Ecuadorian football club.

Abstract

Stress is a psychological factor that can affect the well-being and performance of adolescent athletes due to the interplay of athletic, academic, familial, and social demands. In this context, the aim of this study was to analyze perceived stress levels and the main stressors among adolescent soccer players from the Portoviejo Fútbol Club (Under-18 category). A study with a mixed-methods approach, a non-experimental cross-sectional design, and a descriptive scope was conducted. The sample consisted of 20 soccer players aged 17 to 18, selected through non-probability purposive sampling. Data collection involved the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and a structured questionnaire on stressors; the results were analyzed using descriptive statistics and a qualitative analysis of open-ended responses. The findings revealed that 85% of the participants experienced some level of perceived stress, with 45% reporting high levels and 40% reporting moderate levels. The primary stressor identified was the academic context—specifically academic workload, graduation projects, and time management difficulties—followed by the demands of sports training. Manifestations such as lack of energy, frequent forgetfulness, and fatigue were also identified. It is concluded that stress among adolescent soccer players is determined by the interaction of multiple contexts, with academic demands outweighing athletic ones; this highlights the need to implement comprehensive psychological support strategies that foster well-being and athletic performance.