Contributions to Global Self-Esteem: Domain Specific Self Perceptions in Athletes Vs. Non-Athletes.
Shavelson et al1 introduced a hierarchical model of the self-concept that highlights the multiple domains that contribute to the composition of the self. These domains included academic, social,
emotional and physical self-concepts, all of which collectively contribute to general descriptions of self. According to Shavelson et al,1 achievement in specific domains should be positively related to
self-conceptions within those domains. The accumulation of self conceptions, then, comprised the global self-concept. Self-esteem is considered the value that an individual places on their collection of self-conceptions accumulated in those multiple domains of functioning.
Self-esteem research has adopted the hierarchical structure of the Shavelson framework and supports a multidimensional view of self-development. Harter, for example, argued that selfesteem development is unique to the individual’s accomplishments and experiences.
Not withstanding, results of the investigation may be meaningful from the perspective of athletic identity, specifically with reference to inevitable retirement from sport, whether due to injury, personal choice or exhaustion of eligibility. Lally14 for example, in a longitudinal study of 3 male and 3 female university student athletes, concluded that it was necessary for athletes to begin redefining their self-concept well in advance of retirement in order to experience less disruption upon transition to leaving sport.
An additional area of interest may be related to the psychological impact of athletic injury. The psychosocial factors related to injury occurrence, efficiency of rehabilitation and ease of transition back to competition have received a well spring of interest over the last several decades.
Sport Exerc Med Open J. 2020; 6(1): 17-20. doi: 10.17140/SEMOJ-6-177
