Abstract

Low self-esteem is problematic for many adolescent girls, yet may be improved through interventions and programs involving mentorship and/or physical activity. Outcomes of a program for girls age 7-12, titled BIO (Beautiful Inside and Out) Girls, involving mentorship, physical activity, and Christian-based lessons was evaluated. Utilizing a pretest/post-test study design, researchers administered questionnaires (KINDL-R: Revised questionnaire to assess Health-Related Quality of Life in children and adolescents) during pre- and post-program sessions to each girl participant (n=169) and a parent (n=159) across eight site locations. Paired sample statistical analysis revealed significant improvements on survey scores from pre- to post- program for girls’ total survey score (M=3.12, SD=.46, M=4.03, SD=.50), t(168)=-16.14, p<0.001; physical well-being (M=2.73, SD=.87, M=4.02, SD=.63), t(168)=-15.85, p<0.001), emotional well-being (M=2.73, SD=.87, M=4.27, SD=.59), t(168)=-18.64, p<0.001), family life (M=3.44, SD=.44, M=4.20, SD=.67), t(168)=-12.11, p<0.001), and school life (M=3.13, SD=.60, M=3.92, SD=.50), t(168)=-10.26., p<0.001. Results of the parent surveys revealed significant improvements on total survey score, (M=3.05, SD=.22, M=4.15, SD=.46), t(158)=-28.83, p<0.001, physical well-being (M=2.42, SD=.44, M=4.16, SD=.58), t(158)=-28.59, p<0.001, emotional well-being (M=2.41, SD=.42, M=4.40, SD=.53), t(158)=-33.50, p<0.001, self-esteem (M=3.64, SD=.52, M=3.94, SD=.55), t(158)=-6.41, p<0.001, family life (M=3.34, SD=.29, M=4.02, SD=.62) t=-11.99, p<0.001, and school life (M=2.96, SD=.41, M=4.24, SD=.70), t=-20.50, p<0.001). Repeated measures ANOVA revealed no main effects for age or site location on survey or sub-scale scores. Participation in a curriculum-based physical activity program resulted in positive improvements in quality of life and overall well-being for young girls.

Presenters

Anita M. Gust
Assistant Professor, Math Science and Technology/Exercise Science and Wellness, University of Minnesota Crookston, Minnesota, United States

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

Health Promotion and Education

KEYWORDS

Self-esteem, Well-being, Mentorship, Exercise, Adolescents

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