Impact of sports role model factors on learners’ self-concept development

Abstract

Researchers have argued that sports role models can positively influence followers’ self-concept. However, there have been no empirical studies to investigate this social phenomenon. Therefore, this study examined the impact of sports role model factors on self-concept factors. The sample used in this study included college students who perceive a professional athlete as their role model. Multiple regression analysis was used to examine the relationship between two predictor variables (Athletic performance and personality) and four outcome variables (Scholastic competence, job competence, athletic competence, and social acceptance). The results of this study indicated that each predictor variable significantly influences each outcome variable. The findings support role identification theory and media influence theory in the sport management discipline.