The research aims to develop a psychological counseling program to enhance the psychological control of young short-track players and evaluate its impact on their development. The researcher hypothesizes that there will be statistically significant differences in the level of psychological control between the control and experimental groups. The experimental method was adopted, involving both control and experimental groups, as it is considered the most appropriate for addressing research problems scientifically. The sample was purposefully selected and consisted of 59 players from first-class clubs in short- and medium-distance running events. A total of 10 players, aged 16-18 years, were randomly divided into two groups: the experimental group (5 players) and the control group (5 players). The scale developed by Al-Qaisi (2019) was used, after modifications to suit the sample, and validated by specialists in educational and psychological sciences and sports psychology. The scale, comprising 46 statements across 4 areas, was found valid with an 80% agreement rate among experts. A pre-test was conducted to measure psychological control levels, and the guidance program was applied using lecture and discussion methods in group counseling sessions for the experimental group. The results showed that the guidance program significantly improved the psychological control of young short-track players, with statistically significant differences favoring the experimental group compared to the control group. The study also highlighted the importance of guidance programs alongside training curricula.



Keywords: Guidance Program, Psychological Control