A Preliminary Study on the Need for Psychological Interventions for Injury Rehabilitation in Youth Footballer

Abstract

Psychological responses can also be found in injured soccer players. There is

limited literature on the availability of psychological interventions that can help

athletes return to training and competition after injury in the Indonesian context.

This study aims to analyze the need for psychological interventions to support post-

injury medical rehabilitation in adolescent soccer athletes. Rapid Qualitative

Assessment A survey was conducted with a youth soccer player, a coach, and a

physiotherapist to understand the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral responses

of youth soccer players undergoing injury rehabilitation. Data analysis was

conducted using thematic analysis to generate themes regarding player reactions

to injury, support received, and expectations regarding needed psychological

interventions. Based on the resulting themes, intervention needs were identified

related to managing negative emotions and interpretations due to injury, fostering

motivation for recovery and encouraging behaviors that support rehabilitation, and

social support. These needs can serve as a reference in determining psychological

intervention methods for assisting youth soccer players who experience injuries..

Keywords: analysis needs, interventions psychology, rehabilitation injury, youth soccer