The Self-Esteem Complex and Youth Fitness

Abstract

Although concern for youth fitness has increasingly taken on a health related perspective, psychological factors have largely been ignored. The dual role of self-esteem as (a) an index of mental well-being, and (b) a mediator of behavior justifies greater consideration by youth fitness researchers and practitioners. This paper outlines recent theoretical developments in self-esteem research that have yet to be applied to the youth fitness problem. Specifically outlined are the concepts of self-esteem multidimensionality and hierarchical structuring, and the processes of personalization. Programmatical implications related to self-esteem promotion and exercise motivation are presented, and future research direction is briefly discussed.