Discuss the potential negative psychological impacts of fitness testing in school environments and how these might be minimised. (5 marks)
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Sample Answer
- Public display of results can cause embarrassment and anxiety for students with lower fitness levels, potentially reducing their enjoyment of physical activity and damaging self-esteem.
- Competitive comparisons between students may create unhealthy body image concerns, particularly during adolescence when body awareness is heightened.
- Emphasis on normative standards without consideration of individual factors may discourage students who cannot meet these standards despite significant personal effort.
- These impacts can be minimised by focusing on personal improvement rather than comparison to peers, with teachers providing private feedback and emphasising effort over achievement.
- Creating a supportive environment where diverse physical abilities are respected and valued helps reduce stigma and pressure associated with testing.
Show Worked Solution
Sample Answer
- Public display of results can cause embarrassment and anxiety for students with lower fitness levels, potentially reducing their enjoyment of physical activity and damaging self-esteem.
- Competitive comparisons between students may create unhealthy body image concerns, particularly during adolescence when body awareness is heightened.
- Emphasis on normative standards without consideration of individual factors may discourage students who cannot meet these standards despite significant personal effort.
- These impacts can be minimised by focusing on personal improvement rather than comparison to peers, with teachers providing private feedback and emphasising effort over achievement.
- Creating a supportive environment where diverse physical abilities are respected and valued helps reduce stigma and pressure associated with testing.