Involvement in sport: A somatopsychic rationale for physical activity (Health education, physical education, and recreation series) - Hardcover

Harris, Dorothy V

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0812104404 ISBN 13: 9780812104400

Publisher: Lea & Febiger, 1973

Synopsis

The introductory chapter establishes the position that Homo ludens (man the player) needs more than just fitness resulting from exercise. The need for exercise his not enough to keep him involved over time. A look at an attempt to explain his involvement through classical and modern theories of play follows but still does not produce a convincing argument or rationale. The main portion of this book is devoted to demonstrating plausibility of a somatopsychic rationale for physical activity involvement beginning with a discourse on a multitude of motivational factors which may exert a great deal of influence upon somatic involvement for psychic benefits. Next, the concept of " healthy body, healthy mind" is explored, along with a discussion of how motor experiences may influence intellectual performance. Scrutinizing the role of aggression in support and play has produced a chapter which looks at what role sport may serve in society with regard to aggressive behavior. Why some individuals are "turned on" by bodily risk and danger offers yet another explanation of how psychic energy me be produced by somatic involvement and of how some individuals may seek gratification of specific needs through such activity. Additional somatic influences over behavior are discussed in focusing upon the relationship of physical activity and weight control. The manner in which an individual perceives his or her body and how this may relate to both the pursuit of or the avoidance of certain types of physical activity and sports are presented next, followed by an exploration of how somatic experiences may influence the self concept and thus the behavior of many individuals. How success and/or failure experiences in physical activity situations may reinforce either a positive or a negative self concept is also discussed.

Edition details

• Publisher: Lea & Febiger
• Publication date: 1973
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0812104404
• ISBN 13: 9780812104400
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 250