Comparison of Resilience and Self-Efficacy in Athletes and Non-Athletes With Disabilities Caused by Spinal Cord Injury

Objectives The current causal-comparative study aimed at comparing resiliency and self-efficacy between athletes and non-athletes with disabilities caused by Spinal Cord Injury (SCI).  Methods Using simple random sampling method, 32 subjects were enrolled in each group. Data were collected using the Connor-Davidson Resiliency Scale and the Sherer general self-efficacy questionnaire.  Results The findings of the study showed that athletes with disabilities had more resilience than their non-athlete counterparts (P=0.006). However, considering the score of 50 as the appropriate resiliency threshold, there was no significant difference in resilience between the two groups, and the total self-efficacy score, with mode of 65, was higher in the athletes than non-athletes (P=0.001). Also, the findings of the study showed a significant relationship between resilience and self-efficacy, and doing exercise. And sports can be suggested as a way to promote resilience and self-efficacy in people with SCI.  Conclusion According to the findings of the present study, there is a significant relationship between resilience and self-efficacy, and doing exercise. Exercise is likely to be a way to promote resilience and self-efficacy in people with SCI.