Effects of Physical Self-Concept, Emotional Isolation, and Family Functioning on Attitudes towards Physical Education in Adolescents: Structural Equation Analysis

Abstract

1) Background: The present research seeks to define and contrast an explanatory model of physical self-concept, emotional isolation, attitude towards physical education, and family functioning, and analyse the existing associations between these variables.(2) Methods: The sample was made up of 2388 adolescents (43.39% male and 56.61% female), with ages of 11-17 years (M = 13.85; SD = 1.26) from Spain. Self-concept (AF-5), Isolation (UCLA), Attitude towards Physical Education (CAEF), and Family Functioning (APGAR) were analyzed. (3) Results: Good fit was obtained for all evaluation indices included in the structural equation model, which was significantly adjusted (χ 2 = 233,023; DF = 14; p < 0.001; comparative fit index (CFI) = 0.913; normalized fit index (NFI) = 0.917; incremental fit index (IFI) = 0.906; root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.072). (4) Conclusions: Attitudes towards physical activity were found to be positive when isolation levels were low and where adequate self-concept existed, specifically in students reporting high family functioning. a fundamental stage for its development and for the acquisition of values which facilitate positive interactions with others [12].Physical education (PE) in the educational setting provides a tool for these learnings [8,12]. Amongst the different potential benefits of physical education within these age groups that are related to psychological and mental wellbeing, we find social development and the development of personality. Further, PE promotes fundamental behaviors and skills related to emotional intelligence such as self-concept, altruism, empathy, and understanding the needs of others, amongst others [13].In adolescents, engaging in physical and sporting activity contributes to the promotion of a positive personality and emotional empathy, which improves interpersonal relationships between participants [14,15]. Levels of self-concept and empathy represent protective factors against the development of violent behaviors and victimization in scholars [16], whilst also improving positive relationships with others and mental health [17]. Self-concept is understood as a mental representation of the way in which individuals see themselves [18]. It is composed of diverse social factors-social, emotional, physical, family, and academic [19]. Research studies demonstrate that adolescents, both males and females, who participate regularly in PA report a more positive physical self-concept than those who are not as active [20]. This is the driver of improved social perception, which enables better relationships with others and leads to better academic performance [21].Recent studies have added a new risk factor for mental health and anti-social conduct in adolescents. This is the rise in screen time [22], which together with the reduction in PA [23], drives an increase in feelings of loneliness. High self-efficacy towards the control and reduction of screen time and engagement in PA are factors that relate to a lower probability of social isolation and ...

Children’s Physical Self-Concept and Body Image According to Weight Status and Physical Fitness

“…The findings suggested that general physical self-concept and its sub-domains (i.e., perceived competence, perceived fitness and perceived appearance) are significantly associated with physical activity in young people. The research conducted by Padial-Ruz et al [18] found that self-concept, in all of its dimensions, achieved a higher level among individuals who engaged in PA. This confirms the positive effects of PA at a physical and mental level, on social relations, this being even more evident during the adolescent stage [20].…”

“…Research studies demonstrate that adolescents, both males and females, who participate regularly in physical activity reported a more positive physical self-concept than those who were not active [17]. The study by Padial-Ruz et al [18] showed that self-concept was shown by individuals with higher levels of physical activity. This confirms the positive effects of physical activity at a physical and mental level and on relatedness [19], and it is more evident during the adolescent stage [20].…”

“…Levels of self-concept represent protective factors against the development of maladaptive behaviors in scholars [30]. Research studies demonstrate that adolescents, both males and females, who participate regularly in PA report a more positive physical self-concept than those who are not as active [17,18,20,21].…”

Analysis of Self-Concept in Adolescents before and during COVID-19 Lockdown: Differences by Gender and Sports Activity

“…Hence, self-concept is especially important in adolescence, since everyday emotions and feelings are essential in personal development, which is subjective and changes according to external factors and new contexts of life [19]. As a matter of fact, self-concept represents a protective factor against disruptive behaviour, enhancing both mental health and positive peer relationships [20]. Consequently, the psychological construction of a positive self-concept in students during the school years produces successful socio-emotional situations and educational settings [21].…”

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“…There is evidence to suggest that behavioral levels of activities performed during adolescence may follow into adulthood [10,24,35,47,48,49,50]. Although the effects of chronic noncommunicable diseases manifest in adulthood, their development begins in childhood and adolescence [29].…”