The Effect of Narcissistic Personality Traits of Athletes on Exercise Addiction

Abstract

Background. Studies examining the development of exercise addiction point out the relationship between the characteristics that create this behavioral addiction and the personality characteristics of individuals. Objectives. This study aims to examine athletes' exercise addiction levels and narcissism levels and to reveal the relationship between narcissism and exercise addiction. Methods. The study's sample consisted of 235 ((X) over bar =23) athletes, 98 of whom were female and 137 of whom were male, between the ages of 18 and 53, who were involved in fitness, kickboxing, and volleyball sports in Osmaniye province. The research design used a relational survey design, one of the quantitative research methods. Results. According to the research results, it was determined that there was a significant difference between exercise addiction and narcissism levels and in the tolerance development and passion sub-dimensions of the exercise addiction scale of athletes according to branches (p<0.05). Additionally, a significant difference was observed between exercise duration and exercise addiction (p<0.05). Accordingly, it was determined that there was a moderately significant positive relationship between narcissism and exercise addiction (r=0.493 p<0.01). As a result, narcissism appears to be a significant predictor of exercise addiction (r(2)=0.243 p<0.01). It can be stated that 24% of the total variance regarding exercise addiction is explained by narcissism. Conclusion. As a result, narcissism appears to be a significant predictor of exercise addiction. It is essential to identify exercise addiction risk factors to be protected from exercise addiction and to minimize its possible effects. In this way, it is thought that individuals can achieve positive results from exercise.