Personality Attributes, Leadership Styles, and Locus of Control among Indian Coaches: A Psychological and Managerial Analysis

Abstract

This study investigated the psychological attributes of Indian coaches, focusing on personality traits, leadership styles, and locus of control. A sample of Indian sports coaches (N = 50) was assessed using the Big Five Inventory, the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire, and Rotter’s Locus of Control Scale. Independent samples t-tests revealed significant differences across key variables. Coaches with an internal locus of control scored higher on transformational leadership (M = 4.21, SD = 0.58) compared to external locus coaches (M = 3.79, SD = 0.62), t(78) = 2.45, p = .017. Conversely, external locus coaches demonstrated stronger transactional leadership tendencies (M = 3.45, SD = 0.51) relative to internal locus coaches (M = 3.12, SD = 0.49), t(78) = -2.18, p = .032. Gender differences were observed, with female coaches reporting higher internal locus scores (M = 3.89, SD = 0.61) than male coaches (M = 3.45, SD = 0.56), t(48) = -2.12, p = .039. Experience also influenced personality traits, as coaches with more than five years of experience scored higher on conscientiousness (M = 4.32, SD = 0.47) compared to less experienced coaches (M = 3.98, SD = 0.52), t(62) = 2.67, p = .010. These findings highlight the role of internal locus orientations and personality maturity in fostering transformational leadership, with implications for coach education, gender-sensitive interventions, and mentorship programs in Indian sports psychology and management.