This study investigates adolescents’ self-perceptions by means of the Self Description Questionnaire. This study sought to determine whether participation in sports or physical activity outside school effects adolescents’ self-perceptions with regards to five different domains. These include, Physical Abilities, Physical Appearance, Peer Relations, General School, General Self. Also of interest to this study, were the differences in self-perceptions between males and females regardless of whether they participate in sports or not.

This study was administered to adolescents of 12-13 years of age at four different area secondary schools, two of which are girls’ schools, and the other two are boys’ schools. Sports and physical activity were found to have an effect on self-perceptions, however this affect is not on all the domains of the self. The domains of the self which seem to be positively affected by sports and physical activity are physical abilities, physical appearance and to a less extent peer relations and general self. It is also clear to see that sports and physical activity have absolutely no affect on self-perceptions regarding school competence.

B.Ed.(Hons)

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