Superstitious Behaviors in Sports and Exercise: A Systematic Literature Review Update

Area of Science:

• Sports Psychology
• Behavioral Science
• Cultural Anthropology

Background:

• Superstitious behavior in sports is prevalent, offering athletes psychological comfort and perceived performance benefits.
• Previous literature reviews on sports superstitions were published before 2016.
• New research has expanded understanding from cultural, psychological, and situational perspectives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To update and expand the existing literature review on superstitious behavior in sports.
• To systematically review new research published between 2016 and 2024.
• To incorporate findings from databases not included in the initial review.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review following PRISMA guidelines.
• Searched PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, and ProQuest databases.
• Assessed study quality using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT).

Main Results:

• 27 eligible studies were identified, predominantly observational (26 studies).
• 55.1% of athletes reported superstitions, and over 90% reported sport-specific rituals.
• Younger, team, and elite athletes showed higher superstition levels; cultural influences are significant.

Conclusions:

• Superstitions in sports remain widespread and serve as coping mechanisms, reducing anxiety and enhancing performance via placebo effects.
• Excessive reliance on superstitions can lead to athlete burnout.
• Further multidisciplinary research is needed to understand placebo effects and long-term impacts.