ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term effects of participation in team sports on the development of self-esteem in adolescents (varying in age from 10 to 18 years old). The study placed a special focus on the mediating role of perceived sport competence (PSC). A total of 1,358 individuals from three distinct age groups (ten to twelve, thirteen to fifteen, and sixteen to eighteen) had their information collected over the course of a period of two years. There is a positive association between participating in a team sport and enhancing one’s sense of self-worth, according to research. Additionally, the models of skill development and self-enhancement are both strengthened by PSC, which serves as a mediator in this interaction for the purpose of enhancing both models. In accordance with the skill-development model, early experiences with team sports are responsible for the formation of basic confidence. This model is reinforced by the fact that PSC had the biggest impact on the youngest cohort. According to the self-improvement model, on the other hand, the PSC had a more significant influence on the development of future participation in team sports among teenagers (those between the ages of 13 and 15). Based on these results, it is clear that team sports play a significant part in the development of adolescents’ self-esteem by enhancing their judgements of their own ability and by providing them with opportunities for continuous engagement.

Keywords: Team sports, Adolescents, Self-esteem, Perceived sport competence, Skill development, Self-enhancement, Youth development, Longitudinal study, Sport psychology, Psychological well-being