Date of Award

2010-01-01

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

Education

Advisor(s)

Fransico Soto Mas

Abstract

Physical activity gives women and girls an overall better quantity of life and positive health benefits. Statistics indicate lack of participation in physical activity and exercise by the U.S. general population and among the Latino population in particular. The primary purpose of this study is to explore the variables that motivate young Latinas to play and eventually continue to stay involved in team sports. This is a survey correlational study including young Latina females a U.S.-Mexico border community. Statistical analysis included frequencies, means, and Pearson Product Momentum Correlations. Sixty-nine participants (12 to 15 years old) completed the survey. The response rate was 86% (69/80). The most consistent reasons across grade levels for participating in sports included fitness, skill/mastery, and fun/excitement. There was no statistical significance among the seven subscales across grade levels. Correlational analyses indicated a positive and significant correlation between skill and competitiveness in 9th grade (r = .994), 8th grade (r = .825) and participants with athletic parents (r =.612). The literature lacks studies that address young Latina females on this type of important health issue and more research needs to be conducted.

Language

en

Provenance

Received from ProQuest

File Size

59 pages

File Format

application/pdf

Rights Holder

Dora A. Pichardo

Download

Share

COinS