Effects of gymnastic on self-esteem of elite gymnasts aged 12-18 years

The purpose of this study was to assess self-esteem of elite gymnasts and to compare with untrained subjects aged 12-18 years. A total of 196 subjects (female gymnasts group n = 55, male gymnasts group n = 32, female control group n = 54, male control group n = 55) were voluntarily participated in this study. Mean age of groups participated in the study was 14.4 ± 1.5 ye ars. Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale and Socio-Demographic informati on form were applied on subjects. Statistical analysis were done by using khe Square and Erus- kal-Wallis tests. Although higher self-esteem scores were observed in elite gymnasts than control groups, statistically there were no differences between groups. Increasing self-esteem of male and female gymnasts was highly depends on increasing the duration of participation in sports. Continuity of self concept of gymnasts groups was higher than control groups (p < 0,05). Sensitivity to critiscism, depressive affect and pschosomatic symptoms of competitive male gymnasts were higher than control groups (p < 0,05). Parental interests of male groups and national female gymansts were higher than other female groups (p < 0,01). Psychic isolation of national male and female gymnasts were lower than other groups participated in this study(P < 0,01)