Age-group differences in perception of competence, goal orientation, attitudes, and practice of physical activity of girls who attend military schools

Abstract

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