THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN COMPETITIVE PERFORMANCE AND THE PERCEIVED SENSE OF SELF-EFFICACY IN AESTHETIC SPORTS ATHLETES: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Aesthetic sports, such as rhythmic gymnastics, figure skating, and ballet, require not only physical skills but also high psychological demands and self-regulation. In these contexts, the perception of self-efficacy can be decisive for sports performance and mental well-being. Objective: This systematic review aimed to analyze the relationship between competitive performance and the perceived sense of self-efficacy in athletes of aesthetic sports, focusing on the female population. Methodology: The research followed the PRISMA guidelines and carried out searches in the PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases, considering publications between 2010 and 2024. Fourteen studies that met the eligibility criteria were included. Results: The results indicated that self-efficacy significantly influences competitive performance, especially when associated with confidence, social support, and perceived competence. Athletes with high levels of self-efficacy presented greater motivation, better performance, and less anxiety. On the other hand, negative effects such as external pressures, perfectionism and high social expectations were also highlighted, which can compromise psychological well-being and lead to sports abandonment. The most common methodological limitations included the heterogeneity of instruments and conceptual diversity. Conclusion: Self-efficacy is a central psychological variable in aesthetic sports, and its strengthening can benefit both the performance and mental health of athletes. Longitudinal studies with greater specificity by modality are recommended.