PURPOSE This study systematically observed and analyzed nonverbal behaviors performed during table tennis matches to develop a coding system facilitating an indepth understanding of their strategic and psychological functions. The key purpose of the study is to lay a foundation for practical applications and future research. METHODS A descriptive coding approach was used to develop a framework for the analysis of athletes’ nonverbal behaviors. The process of development followed a structured 10-step procedure that involved video analysis, expert review, and intercoder reliability assessment. Three trained coders participated in the development and application phases and were supported by two additional observers who had no pre-existing knowledge of the research purpose to enhance objectivity. Inter-coder reliability was evaluated using percent agreement and intraclass correlation coefficient. RESULTS In this process, 17 distinct nonverbal behavioral categories were identified and organized into four overarching categories: (1) Encouraging behaviors, intended to boost morale and concentration; (2) Equipment check behaviors, interpreted as attributive actions adopted to externalize responsibility for errors; (3) Pace control behaviors, which are intended to regulate match tempo and disrupt the opponent’s rhythm; and (4) Negative emotiondriven behaviors, which reflect internal emotional struggles. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate the strategic and psychological significance of players’ nonverbal behaviors in competitive sports. The coding system developed in this study provides an objective framework for understanding athletes’ behaviors, providing insights that can contribute to emotion regulation during matches and the development of strategies for psychological warfare with opponents.
