2D:4D Digit Ratio, Football, Mental Toughness, Sports Psychology
Conditions
Brief summary
This observational study aims to investigate the association between brain type, determined by the second-to-fourth digit (2D:4D) ratio, playing position, and mental toughness among amateur soccer players. A total of 270 licensed amateur soccer players participated in the study. Mental toughness was assessed using the Sports Mental Toughness Questionnaire (SMTQ), while brain type was determined by measuring the 2D:4D digit ratio. The study examines whether mental toughness differs according to brain type and playing position, providing insight into the neuropsychological characteristics of soccer players and their potential relationship with psychological performance.
Interventions
OTHERObservational Assessment
No intervention was administered. Participants underwent assessment of the second-to-fourth digit (2D:4D) ratio and completed the Sports Mental Toughness Questionnaire (SMTQ).
Sponsors
Istanbul Gelisim University
Study design
Observational model
COHORT
Time perspective
CROSS_SECTIONAL
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
16 Years to 40 Years
Healthy volunteers
Yes
Inclusion criteria
* Licensed amateur soccer player. * Aged between 16 and 40 years. * Currently participating in regular soccer training and competitions. * Able to understand and complete the Sports Mental Toughness Questionnaire (SMTQ). * Provided written informed consent prior to participation.
Exclusion criteria
* Professional soccer players. * History of neurological or psychiatric disorders that could affect psychological assessment. * Upper extremity deformity or injury preventing accurate 2D:4D measurement. * Incomplete questionnaire or missing study data. * Declined or withdrew informed consent.
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Sports Mental Toughness Questionnaire (SMTQ) Total Score | Baseline (single assessment) | Mental toughness was assessed using the Sports Mental Toughness Questionnaire (SMTQ), a validated 14-item self-report questionnaire. Total scores range from 14 to 56, with higher scores indicating greater mental toughness. The total score was compared among brain type (Type A, Type B, and Type C) groups and playing positions. |
Secondary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 2D:4D Digit Ratio Classification | Baseline (single assessment) | Brain type was determined by manually measuring the second-to-fourth digit (2D:4D) ratio of the hands. Participants were classified as Type A, Type B, or Type C according to predefined criteria. |
| Playing Position Classification | Baseline (single assessment) | Participants were categorized according to their playing positions (goalkeeper, defender, midfielder, or striker) to evaluate differences in mental toughness. |
Countries
Turkey (Türkiye)
Outcome results
None listed