AGE-GROUP DIFFERENCES IN PERCEPTION OF COMPETENCE, GOAL ORIENTATION, ATTITUDES, AND PRACTICE OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY OF GIRLS WHO ATTEND MILITARY SCHOOLS

Abstract

Adilson Marques, João Martins, José Diniz, Francisco Carreiro da Costa

This study analysed the differences in self-perception, goal orientation and participation in physical activity (PA) in girls (N = 244) attending military schools. Girls had moderately higher levels of perceived competence, and there were no significant differences between age-groups. The figure for task-orientation was higher than ego-orientation. Girls expressed a positive attitude toward school and PE. Most girls did not practiced PA outside school, but 63,9% were involved in school sports. It seems that the military educational institutions are being successful in helping students to adopt physically active lifestyles. The development of perception of competence, task-orientation, and favourable attitudes seem to be important factors to enhance the levels of PA among students.