Does Running A First Marathon Influence General Self-Efficacy and Positive Orientation?

Anna Gorczyca , Tomasz Jankowski , Piotr Oleś

Abstract

The aim of this study was to measure the potential increase in general self-efficacy (GSE) and positive orientation (PO) in the context of a first marathon run. Self-efficacy and positive orientation, defined as a general tendency to evaluate self, life and future in a positive way were measured at three time points: at the beginning of preparation, just after completing the marathon, and two months after completing the marathon. Eighty adults (23 women) completed the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES; Schwarzer & Jerusalem, 1995) and Positivity Scale (PS; Caprara et al., 2012). A latent trajectory model was used to test the hypothesis that self-efficacy and PO would be higher immediately after the marathon and two months later than at the start of preparation. The marathon had a significant effect only in women. Slopes indicating rates of change in self-efficacy and PO were also correlated. The second autoregressive model suggested that PO was a causal factor in changes in GSE over time. Results are discussed in the light of relevant contemporary literature