Physical activity and physical and general self-concept during adulthood

Abstract

Abstract

The developmental steps of self-concept, particularly physical self-concept during adulthood, have not yet been well-defined; consequently, we lack information regarding the specific relations existing between these steps and physical activity. A total of 912 people participated in the study (350 men, 560 women), all aged between 23 and 64 (M = 45.41; SD = 13.41). The sample group was divided into three age ranges, 23-34; 35-49; and 50-64. Participants classified themselves as either active or sedentary. The results revealed that: a. various dimensions of self-concept decreased as age increased, in all three groups studied; b. the subjective perception of oneself as being an active person is positively associated with physical self-concept; c. the decrease in self-concept associated with age affects active people less than their sedentary counterparts. These data provide important information for both research and the personal and physical education of adults.

 Key words: Physical activity, age, self-concept and physical self-concept, adulthood.