Assessment of Children's Physical Self-Perceptions

Open Access
Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Two studies are reported on the use of Fox and Corbin's (1989) Physical Self-Perception Profile (PSPP) modified for use with children (PSPP-C). The current studies used British children of 12 and 15 years of age. Study I found that after factor analysis the proposed four subdomains of physical self-worth (sport competence, body attractiveness, perceived strength and physical condition) were not clearly represented, although some similarities emerged. However, the subscales showed adequate internal reliability for the younger sample, but less so for the adolescents, and no association with a measure of social desirability was found. Correlations between subdomains and a measure of physical self-worth (PSW) were moderate and similar to those reported in other research with American children. Finally, a small group of 12 year-old boys took part in Study II. They completed the PSPP-C and also performed an endurance run task. Performance was associated with scores on sport competence, physical condition and PSW. Results are explained in terms of the different ways that people may view physical aspects of their selves, and in particular developmental issues are noted. The PSPP-C is recommended for use in research, but with caution and further psychometric assessment. Further phenomenological work on British children's physical self-perceptions is also required.

This publication has 6 references indexed in Scilit: