Dissertations and Theses @ UNI

Availability

Open Access Thesis

Keywords

Body image; Self-perception;

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine whether a difference In physical self-concept exists among female body builders, female athletes, and female non-athletes. It was hypothesized that the female body builders would possess a significantly higher physical self-concept than the female athletes and female non-athletes. The Physical Self-Concept Subscale of the Tennessee Self-Concept Scale was administered to female body builders, female athletes, and female non-athletes (N = 73). A one-way analysis of variance was used to determine differences among the three groups. The body builders (n = 15) were found to possess a significantly ( p < .01) higher physical self-concept than the athletes and the non-athletes. The female athletes possessed a slightly but non-significantly higher (p > .05) physical self-concept than the female non-athletes. The results of this study support the hypothesis that the female body builder possesses a significantly higher physical self-concept than the female athlete and the female non-athlete. These results Indicate that female body builders may have overcome societal stereotyping that has plagued female participants in the sport. The data suggest that the body builders do not perceive themselves any less feminine than the athletes or the non-athletes. The extreme physical and mental dedication demanded of a body builder may be contributing factors to the higher physical self-concept. It is suggested that further research should Include the degree of physical participation as well as a larger population of female body builders as categorical, independent variables.

Year of Submission

1987

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

Department of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation

First Advisor

Sharon Huddleston

Second Advisor

Jane E. Richards

Third Advisor

Susan G. Doody

Comments

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Date Original

1987

Object Description

1 PDF file (54 leaves)

Language

en

File Format

application/pdf

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