Perceived competence, discrepancy scores, and global self-worth

Abstract

According to Harter (1985a), global self-worth (GSW) can be predicted from the relationship between perceptions of competence and importance ratings. In this study, we employed Harter's (1985b) Importance Rating Scale (IRS) and Self-Perception Profile for Children (SPPC) to examine importance ratings, discrepancy scores, and domain-specific perceptions of competence as predictors of GSW. Children (N = 130, 62 boys and 68 girls) aged 8-12 years were categorized into high (HMC; n = 62) and low motor coordination (LMC; n = 68) groups according to their scores on a motor proficiency battery (McCarron, 1982). Regression analyses using domain-specific perceptions of competence, importance, and discrepancy scores confirmed that self-perception ratings were the best predictors of GSW. For both groups, perceptions of physical appearance, social acceptance, and behavioral conduct contributed significantly to prediction of GSW. By contrast, perceived athletic competence increased prediction of GSW for the HMC group but not the LMC group.