Motor development between early childhood and early adulthood in the context of personality development

The development of tested and self-perceived motor abilities was studied within the wider context of personality development in a longitudinal sample of 146 respondents examined from early childhood to early adulthood. Results showed that tested preschool motor abilities related significantly not only to intelligence but also, and independent of it, to social uninhibitedness and (only for boys) to low aggressiveness. Self-perceived motor abilities were less stable than tested abilities, particularly in females. Significant influences of perceived motor abilities on tested motor abilities were not found, supporting a skill-development model. Alongside tested motor abilities, general self-esteem influenced perceived motor abilities, particularly in females. Influences of social-emotional personality traits on tested motor abilities could be found fight up until early adulthood. It is concluded that the understanding of motor development and its consequences can be enhanced by studying it within the context of personality development.