Sternberg's Thinking Styles and Their Relationship to the Effectiveness of Certain Offensive Skill Performances Among Youth Handball Players in the Eastern Region of Libya

Abstract

The present research aimed to investigate Sternberg’s thinking styles (Mental Self-Government) and their relationship to the effectiveness of offensive skill performances among youth handball players (under 18 years) in the Eastern Region of Libya. Furthermore, it sought to determine their percentage of contribution and derive predictive mathematical equations for offensive skill performance based on these styles. The researchers adopted a descriptive approach utilizing both correlational and survey methods. The research was purposively applied to a total sample of (67) youth players registered with the Libyan Handball Federation for the (2025/2026) sports season, representing the following clubs: (Al-Najma, Qaryounis, Al-Anwar, and Al-Akhdar). This sample was divided into a pilot sample of (16) players to standardize the research instruments, and a main sample of (51) players. Data collection tools included the Sternberg-Wagner Thinking Styles Inventory, consisting of (65) items covering thirteen thinking styles, alongside a battery of seven standardized offensive skill tests measured by time and scores.

Statistical induction results revealed a strong, systematically psychometric correlational network between most thinking styles and skill performances. The multiple regression models yielded a composite multiple correlation coefficient (R) ranging from (0.830 to 0.977), demonstrating a superior predictive efficiency for modeling performance based on intellectual preferences. Specifically, the "Hierarchical" and "Monarchic" styles demonstrated peak predictive supremacy in minimizing pure performance times. Conversely, the "Executive" style was directly and positively correlated with stationary shooting accuracy. Meanwhile, the "Judicial" and "Liberal" styles dominated the effectiveness of high-pace skills, such as passing and dynamic shooting. In contrast, the "Anarchic", "Local", and "Conservative" styles imposed a hindering cognitive burden on motor fluency. The research concluded that the derived equations are highly valid as a standardized psychometric tool for athletic talent identification and skill orientation.