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Publication
Athletic identity and self-esteem in Flemish athletes with a disability
Journal Contribution - Journal Article
The aim of this study is to investigate athletic identity, self-esteem and physical self-perceptions
in Flemish athletes with a disability, to investigate the mutual relationships between those variables,
and to evaluate their stability over time. Flemish athletes (Paralympic level, n = 23; Non-
Paralympic Elite level, n = 37) filled out questionnaires 11 months before the Paralympic Games
(PG), 3 months before the PG, and immediately afterwards. Participants in both groups report
strong levels of athletic identity, comparable to profiles in able-bodied sportive individuals. Similar
findings are reported for global self-esteem and physical self-perceptions. With exception of
physical confidence, no relationship was found between athletic identity and (physical) selfperceptions.
Both athletic identity and (physical) self-perceptions are stable constructs over time.
Flemish athletes with disabilities possess a strong athletic identity and subsequent selfperceptions,
in which they identify themselves with being ‘real athletes’. This athletic identity is
imbedded in a broad self-concept approach, largely independent from performances.
Journal: European Journal of Adapted Physical Activity
ISSN: 1803-3857
Issue: 1
Volume: 1
Pages: 9 - 21
Publication year:2008