Factor Analysis of Subjective Psychological Experiences and States of Football Referees

Correlations between values of components of subjective psychological experiences and states in 26 male football referees before the match and after the match were explored using factor analysis. For evaluation of subjective psychological experiences and states the standardized questionnaire SUPSO was used. The questionnaire was filled in twice by referees: before the match and immediately after the match. Four most important factors were described and named. The first factor was called "tendency to discomfort". It relates to referee´s current mental state being probably a reflection of long-term negative circumstances in referee´s life. It is neither related to the completed match, nor referee´s temperament. The second factor was called "depression from failure" and it is connected directly to the completed match. It is probably determined by current referee´s physical and mental conditions. The third and fourth factors proved to be consequences of temperament of referees. In conclusion, the two most important factors of current mental state of football referee during the game can probably be influenced by a systematic psychological preparation. Psychological preparation should therefore become an effective part of the prematch preparation of football referees.