Structural Model of Identity Styles, Identity Commitment and Adherence to Prayer among Young Athletes

The purpose of this study was to determine the structural relationships of identity styles, identity commitment and adherence to prayer among young athletes. To this end, 377 young athletes were selected using a simple random cluster sampling method from the Gorgan city’s club athletes and completed personal information form, identity style inventory and adherence to prayer questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficient and structural equation modeling at 95 percent confidence level. Pearson correlation coefficients showed that information and normative identity styles had positive relationships and diffuse/avoidant identity style had negative relationships with identity commitment and adherence to prayer. Structural equation modeling indicated that information and normative identity styles impacted directly and positively on identity commitment and adherence to prayer, whereas diffuse/avoidant identity style impacted negatively. Overall, identity styles were able to explain 41% of variance in identity commitment and also identity styles and identity commitment explained a total of 58% of variance in adherence to prayer. Based on the total direct and indirect effects, normative, diffuse/avoidant and information identity styles had the greatest effect on adherence to prayer in the sample. On the basis of findings, normalization and promotion of religious beliefs through important individuals in athletes’ social network can increase their adherence to prayer.