Physical self-concept and physical activity enjoyment in elementary school children

in Early Child Development and Care (2016)

The present study examined gender differences and relationships of seven specific domains of physical self-concept (PSC) (Strength, Endurance, Speed, Flexibility, Coordination, Global Sport Competence ... [more ▼]

The present study examined gender differences and relationships of seven specific domains of physical self-concept (PSC) (Strength, Endurance, Speed, Flexibility, Coordination, Global Sport Competence, and Appearance) and physical activity enjoyment (PAE) in 447 elementary school children by self-report questionnaires. Boys reported higher self-concepts of Strength, Endurance, Speed, Coordination, and Global Sport Competence than girls. Conversely, girls showed higher self-concepts of Flexibility than boys. Moreover, all seven specific domains of children's PSC and PAE were positively interrelated and children's self-concepts of Endurance and Global Sport Competence predicted their PAE. Implications for physical education targeting to enhance children's PSC and PAE are discussed. [less ▲]