Effects of learning to ski on the self-concept of mentally retarded children

Abstract

Changes in the self-concept of TMR children as a function of experience in a physical activity program were evaluated. The self-concept of a group of students was measured before and after participation in a 5-week ski program. A control group received similar pre- and postmeasures of self-concept but did not participate in the ski program. Significant changes in self-concept occurred among students in the experimental but not the control group. Furthermore, the magnitude of success in learning to ski was shown to be positively and significantly correlated with magnitude of change in self-concept.