Physical Self-Concept and Sports: Do Gender Differences Still Exist?

Abstract

Gender differences in physical self-concept among elementary- and secondary-school students were investigated. Physical self-concept was measured by the Physical Self-Description Questionnaire. The results indicated significantly higher physical self-concept in boys than in girls in eight subdomains, as well as global physical self-concept and self-esteem. Physical self-concept decreased with increasing age, and there was a significant age by gender interaction in the global physical, body fat, appearance, sports competence, and strength dimensions. Physical appearance was the subdomain that most strongly predicted global self-esteem. The present investigation demonstrated gender differences in multifaceted physical self-concept. Gender differences were large in the global physical, endurance, strength, appearance, and body fat-scales. In the health, flexibility, and coordination dimensions, gender differences were smaller.