Temporal Associations Between Social Identification, Relation-Inferred Self-Efficacy, and Self-Efficacy: A Random Intercept Cross-Lagged Panel Model.

This study aimed to investigate the directionality and reciprocal relationships among social identification, self-efficacy, and relation-inferred self-efficacy (RISE) in runners using a random-intercept cross-lagged panel model. A sample of 350 runners completed surveys at three time points over 2 months. Results revealed a significant cross-lagged effect from self-efficacy at Time 1 to RISE at Time 2, with an indirect effect from self-efficacy at Time 1 to RISE at Time 3 via RISE at Time 2. No cross-lagged effects were found between social identity and efficacy constructs. While social identity was consistently correlated with efficacy within time points, it did not emerge as a significant predictor or outcome of efficacy beliefs. Findings provide the first longitudinal evidence that self-efficacy may shape RISE beliefs over time, offering new insights into the bidirectional nature of efficacy development. Further exploration is warranted to understand the dynamic factors that shape efficacy beliefs in sport and exercise environments.