Effect of a Sports Camp Experience on the Multidimensional Self-Concepts of Boys

Abstract

15 boys, ages 6 to 9 yr., participated in a summer sports day camp under the supervision of counselors trained in ways to enhance self-concept. An attempt was made to implement strategies in the program so that campers would experience persistent success during sports-skills learning and performance and develop positive peer relations. Subjects were pre- and post-tested on a self-concept scale which measured self-knowledge and self-esteem for physical maturity, peer relations, academic success, school adaptiveness, and sports-skills ability. It was thought that a positive experience through developing skills in sport and peer relations might improve at least the area of self-concept related to sports skills as opposed to the other dimensions. This hypothesis was supported. Only the aspects of self-concept related to sport were significantly enhanced after the camp experience. The findings support past research indicating that personal self-concept is situation-specific.