The effects of athletic participation on the student's self-concept

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to determine if differences existed in the self concept of athletes and non-athletes at the sophomore level as measured by the Piers-Harris Children’s Self-Concept Scale. 20 male and 20 female athletes and 20 male and 20 female non-athletes were surveyed using a Piers-Harris Children’s Self-Concept Scale to evaluate the psychological health of the sophomore students. The scale assessed self-concept in six areas as well as the total self-concept. The six areas included 1) physical appearance and attributes, 2) anxiety, 3) intellectual and school status, 4) behavior, 5) happiness and satisfaction, and 6) popularity. Current research was also analyzed. The result of the study showed that athletes scored significantly higher on the self-concept scale than non-athletes. Although it was not significant, both male and female athletes outscored their counterparts on the self-concept scale. The biggest difference in mean scores for males was in the area of behavior. The biggest differences in mean scores for females were in the areas of happiness and satisfaction as well as intellectual and school status. The biggest difference between athletes and non-athletes was the total self-concept score. The results suggest that educational policy makers should view athletics as an essential part of the child’s education. It is recommended that the study be conducted in several other districts before generalizations are made. It is also recommended that the study be expanded throughout more grade levels. A final recommendation would be to explore the role gender plays in the student’s self-concept.