Comparison Between Swimming Practice Levels And Self Image Perception In Physically Handicapped People

Introduction
The present investigation had as objective to compare the self-image perception of physically handicapped swimming practitioners in three different levels of performance. It consisted in a descriptive study, of qualitative nature, in which the Self Image Scale (SIS) - originally elaborated by Singelis in 1994 and adapted by Coelho et al. (2000) - was used as data collecting instrument. 24 items to evaluate the set of thoughts, feelings and actions that compose independent and interdependent self-images compose the Self Image Scale. Independent self-image emphasizes inner qualities and the interdependent emphasizes outer issues indicating a person’s relation with the living social context.

Method
24 congenital and/or acquired physical handicapped people participated in this study divided into three groups: Initiation (28,33 years old average); Pre-Training (31,22 years old average) and Training (29,66 years old average). Statistical analysis used KRUSKAL-WALLIS test, with significance level p<0,05.

Results

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Discussion/Conclusion
Results demonstrated that both independent and interdependent perception of self image did not feature significative differences p<0,05, suggesting the level of swimming practice did not interfere in physically handicapped people’s self image perception. Although comparison among levels of practice has not made possible to measure the practice of physical activity promoting changes in physically handicapped people’s perception of self image, in general, there was a trend towards the swimming practice contribution to build up a positive self image, due to the concentration of answers that points around 5 in a scale distributed from 1 to 7 points. Then, results indicated, at the same time, physically handicapped people obtained benefits that optimized their perception of self image, generating interpersonal relationships that have indicated a self image change.

References
[1]. Coelho, J.A.P.M et. al., (2000). Anais do V Encontro Mineiro de Avaliação Psicológica:Teorização e Prática.132-4.
[2]. Mello, M.T. et al., (1996). Revista da Sociedade Brasileira de Atividade Motora Adaptada. 01, 25-28.
[3]. Penna, L. (1990). Psicologia USP. 1, 167-174.
[4]. Thomas, J. R. & Nelson, J. K. (2002). Métodos de pesquisa em atividade física. Porto Alegre, Artmed.

NOTA: O texto com a iconografia está no anexo

Arquivo