Perceived Barriers and Psychological Characteristics in the Dual Career of Young Athletes: A Gender-Based Analysis

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze gender differences in the perception of barriers and balance within the dual career of high-performance athletes-in-training, as well as in their athletic identity, psychological traits, and importance given to academic achievement. A total of 119 track and field athletes from the U-16, U-18, and U-20 categories who had competed in Spanish championships participated in the study (61 males, age = 18.31 ± 2.31; 58 females, age = 17.27 ± 1.44). Athletes completed the AIMS, the CPRD questionnaire, and selected items from the ESTPORT model. The results showed that females perceived greater academic-sport interference and fatigue, and placed higher value on academic success. In contrast, males showed higher scores in stress control and performance evaluation. Differences in athletic identity were minimal, although females expressed greater emotional sensitivity to sport failure. Team cohesion was higher among females. These findings suggest that female athletes perceive more barriers to dual career development, while also placing greater emphasis on academic goals. Understanding these gender differences may help institutions and professionals design more effective support strategies tailored to the needs of young athletes pursuing both academic and athletic excellence.