Supporting Self-Concept in School Settings Targeting Migrant Background Boys

ABSTRACT

This study investigated the experience of and effect created by a team sport and coaching intervention upon the self-concept of male school students (age: 12–16; n = 129) from diverse backgrounds. A convergent parallel mixed-method design was used to compare and relate a questionnaire study and an interview study in a quasi-experimental design, based on a two-year intervention period. Quantitative results showed a significant effect on (1) general self-concept, (2) physical skills, and (3) social relations. Qualitative interviews showed participants experiencing (1) a stronger and more confident self, (2) a better physical condition, and (3) a stronger and more supportive social environment. Implications of the results are discussed alongside strategies for working with self-concept in school settings targeting migrant background boys.

KEYWORDS:

• Group coaching
• mixed methods
• school
• self-concept
• team sport

Acknowledgements

We thank the school and all of the participants for their participation.

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by Nordea-fonden: [Grant Number 2]; Danish Ministry of Culture: [Grant Number 1].