Abstract
The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate psychological differences between Parkour at non-competitive level and Artistic Gymnastics at competitive level in the pre-adolescent stage. Specifically, psychological aspects strictly related to sporting activities, such as motivation, anxiety and self-confidence, life satisfaction, and well-being were analyzed. 86 pre-adolescents participated in the study (Parkour Group—PG, n = 43; Artistic Gymnastic Group—AG, n = 43) aged between 9 and 14 years (mean age 11.5 ± 1.6 years, 62% of female), who completed a self-report questionnaire consisting of following measures: Sport Motivation Scale (SMS-28), Competitive State Anxiety Inventory 2 (CSAI-2), Multidimensional Students’ Life Satisfaction Scale (MSLSS), and Psychological Well-Being Scales (PWB). Results showed that pre-adolescents in the AG have higher values in intrinsic motivation for execution than their peers in the PG. This latter also have lower levels of cognitive and somatic anxiety and greater self-confidence than the AG group. In addition, the friend’s dimension concerning life satisfaction has a higher score in the PG than in the AG. Finally, no differences were found regarding well-being between the two pre-adolescent groups.
Highlights
The scientific community (Boreham & Riddoch, 2001; McMurray et al, 2003; Cale, 2004) confirms that physical activity and sports performed regularly produce a series of benefits, especially if started from an early age
Psychological aspects strictly related to sporting activities, such as motivation, anxiety and self-confidence, life satisfaction, and well-being were analyzed. 86 pre-adolescents participated in the study (Parkour Group—PG, n = 43; Artistic Gymnastic Group—AG, n = 43) aged between 9 and 14 years, who completed a self-report questionnaire consisting of following measures: Sport Motivation Scale (SMS-28), Competitive State Anxiety Inventory 2 (CSAI-2), Multidimensional Students’ Life Satisfaction Scale (MSLSS), and Psychological Well-Being Scales (PWB)
The present study focuses on the relationships between aspects related to the well-being of pre-adolescents who practice two sports, different in terms of competition level: Artistic Gymnastics and Parkour
Summary
The scientific community (Boreham & Riddoch, 2001; McMurray et al, 2003; Cale, 2004) confirms that physical activity and sports performed regularly produce a series of benefits, especially if started from an early age. Sports activity is often an important tool for the psychological and physical development of the person, as it affects the musculoskeletal system, circulation, breathing, motor coordination, as well as promoting social inclusion. Several authors argue that competitive motor activity leads to positive effects on a psychophysical level (Vallerand et al 1992; Deci & Ryan, 1985; Frederick & Ryan, 1995). Based on these considerations, the present study focuses on the relationships between aspects related to the well-being of pre-adolescents who practice two sports, different in terms of competition level: Artistic Gymnastics and Parkour
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