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Perceptions of competence in physical education students
1College of Physical Education, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon.
Summary
Physical education students report higher athletic competence. This study validated the Self-Perception Profile for College Students, finding gender differences in perceived competence and self-worth.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sports Science
- Educational Psychology
Background:
- Perceived competence is crucial for motivation and well-being.
- The Self-Perception Profile for College Students (SPPCS) measures various domains of self-worth.
- Understanding differences in perceived competence across academic disciplines is important.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate the SPPCS in a college student population.
- To compare perceived competence between physical education students and those in other programs.
- To examine gender differences in self-perception.
Main Methods:
- Administered the SPPCS to 114 physical education students and 209 students from other programs.
- Analyzed five scales: athletic, scholastic, social acceptance, appearance, and global self-worth.
- Utilized factor analysis and ANOVAs for psychometric validation and group comparisons.
Main Results:
- The SPPCS demonstrated psychometric support for its scales.
- Physical education students reported significantly higher athletic competence.
- Males showed higher athletic and appearance competence; females reported higher social acceptance.
Conclusions:
- The SPPCS is a valid measure for assessing perceived competence in college students.
- Physical education majors exhibit distinct self-perception profiles, particularly in athletic competence.
- Findings highlight the interplay between academic focus, gender, and self-perceptions.