Finding Space for Gratitude in Division I Athletics: A Pilot Study

Abstract

The present pilot study examined the feasibility and preliminary effects of a 30-day daily gratitude practice on gratitude, well-being, anxiety, and resilience among college athletes at a Division I National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) institution. Participants (n = 27 completers) were assigned to gratitude (n = 12), mindfulness (n = 9), or control (n = 6) conditions. Pre- and post-intervention surveys assessed gratitude (GQ-6), well-being (WHO-5), resilience (BRS), and competitive state anxiety and self-confidence (CSAI-2). Across conditions, significant time effects were observed for gratitude, well-being, resilience, cognitive anxiety, and self-confidence. Significant Time × Condition interactions were observed for gratitude and cognitive anxiety; no significant main effects of condition were found. As a small pilot with substantial attrition, these findings should be interpreted as preliminary and are useful for refining recruitment, adherence procedures, and outcome assessment before a larger trial. The intervention’s brief format also suggests that gratitude practice may be feasible to integrate into collegiate athletic settings.