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Aspects of self differ among physically active and inactive youths
Zuzana Veselska1, Andrea Madarasova Geckova, Sijmen A Reijneveld
1Kosice Institute for Society and Health, PJ Safarik University, Kosice, Slovak Republic. zuzana.veselska@upjs.sk
International Journal of Public Health
|November 6, 2010
Summary
Regular physical activity is linked to better self-perception in adolescents. Engaging in daily exercise can boost self-esteem and self-efficacy, particularly for girls.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent psychology
- Exercise science
- Self-perception studies
Background:
- Adolescence is a critical period for self-concept development.
- Physical activity levels often decline during adolescence.
- Understanding the interplay between physical activity and self-perception is crucial for youth well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between various aspects of self (self-competence, self-liking, self-esteem, self-efficacy) and physical activity levels in adolescents.
- To examine gender differences in this relationship.
Main Methods:
- A sample of 501 adolescents (mean age 14.7 years) from Slovakia and the Czech Republic participated.
- Participants completed validated scales measuring self-competence, self-liking, self-esteem, and self-efficacy.
- Physical activity was categorized into no, infrequent, and everyday activity. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA by gender.
Main Results:
- Adolescents with no physical activity reported lower self-liking and social self-efficacy compared to those with everyday activity.
- Girls engaging in no physical activity showed lower positive self-esteem, self-liking, self-competence, and general/social self-efficacy, alongside higher negative self-esteem, compared to girls with infrequent or everyday activity.
Conclusions:
- Regular physical activity is positively associated with psychological aspects of self in adolescents, notably in girls.
- Promoting consistent physical activity may enhance adolescents' self-worth and self-efficacy.
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