THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SPORT PARTICIPATION AND SOCIAL PERSONALITY VARIABLE OF STUDENTS IN SELECTED SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN OVIA NORTH EAST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out to investigate the relationship between sport participation and social personality variable of students in selected secondary schools in Ovia North East Local Government Area. Four research questions were raised and a stratified sampling technique was used to select one hundred and eighty (180) students which would be drawn from six (6) secondary schools that were randomly secleted in Ovia North Esdt LGA. . The data were collected with questionnaire instrument and analyzed using simple percentage. It was revealed sport participation helps student to be able to cooperate during group participation. It was also made known through findings of the study that engagement in sports make students eliminate discrimination in their relation with others. Further findings of the study revealed that sport participation improve and promote tolerance and empathy among students. Through sport participation, values and behaviors are learnt which are applied to all aspect of society. More findings made it known that sport participation is beneficial as students who engage often demonstrate discipline and it also helps to imbibe the spirit of self-control. Through sports, students have opportunities to express/develop leadership skills and show high level of responsibility. Given these benefits, it can be concluded that sport participation is directly related to social personality of secondary school students, hence the need to promote sport participation among these students. However, it is important to note that not all students will be interested in sports or will be able to participate due to various reasons such as physical abilities, financial constraints, lack of interest etc. It is important to provide a variety of extracurricular activities that meet the needs and interests of all student.