General self-concept and life satisfaction for boys with differing levels of physical coordination: the role of goal orientations and leisure participation

Hum Mov Sci. 2006 Dec;25(6):839-60. doi: 10.1016/j.humov.2006.05.003. Epub 2006 Jul 21.

Abstract

Participation in leisure-time activities, self-concept perceptions and individual dispositional goal orientations were examined as mediators of relationships between physical coordination and self-evaluations of life satisfaction and general self-concept for 173 boys aged 10-13 years. Participants completed seven-day activity diaries and 12-month retrospective recall questionnaires recording participation in leisure-time activities. Self-report measures of self-concept, global life satisfaction and dispositional goal orientations were also completed. Results showed that boys with moderate to severe physical coordination difficulties had significantly lower self-concept perceptions of physical ability and appearance, peer and parent relations and general self-concept, as well as lower life satisfaction than boys with medium to high levels of physical coordination. The relationships between boys' physical coordination and their self-perceptions of life satisfaction and general self-concept were significantly influenced by individual self-concept appraisals of physical ability and appearance, peer and parent relations. Adopting task-oriented goals was found to positively change the relationship between physical coordination and both general self-concept and life satisfaction. Team sport participation positively mediated the relationship between physical coordination and life satisfaction. The potential for team sport participation and adoption of task-oriented goals to influence life satisfaction for boys with differing levels of physical coordination was discussed.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Goals*
  • Humans
  • Leisure Activities*
  • Male
  • Motor Skills Disorders / physiopathology*
  • Orientation / physiology*
  • Personal Satisfaction*
  • Psychomotor Performance*
  • Reference Values
  • Self Concept*
  • Socioeconomic Factors