Perceptions of competence in physical education students

This study sought to validate the Self-Perception Profile for College Students (Neemann and Harter, 1986) by investigating the perceived competence of physical education students as compared to students enrolled in other academic programs. Group One comprised 114 physical education students. Group Two consisted of 209 subjects enrolled in other academic programs. The Self-Perception Profile for College Students was administered to all subjects. Five scales (athletic, scholastic, social acceptance, appearance, and global self-worth) were analyzed. Factor analysis and internal consistency measures provided psychometric support for the scales. Separate ANOVAs calculated for each scale revealed that physical education students had higher perceptions of athletic competence than the other students. Males had higher perceptions of athletic and appearance competence, whereas females had higher perceived social acceptance. These findings are discussed in terms of psychometric issues, and the relationship between perceived competence and motivational patterns.