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Identifying latent profiles of actual and perceived motor competence among children at risk of developmental coordination disorder and their peers: Associations with physical activity and fitness

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study explored the interplay between actual and perceived motor competence and their associations with physical activity and fitness among children with and without risk of developmental coordination disorder (DCD). Utilizing data from 479 children aged 7–9 years from the CATCH cohort, latent profile analysis identified four distinct profiles based on Movement Assessment Battery for Children (MABC-2) and the Perceived Efficacy and Goals Setting System (PEGS). Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity was assessed through waist worn accelerometers, and fitness was assessed using the Bruce protocol, Wingate anaerobic cycling test, and standing long jump. Four latent profiles were identified including low-aligned (7.1%; low actual and perceived competence), over-perceivers (53.0%; low actual but above-average perceived competence), average-aligned (20.0%), and high-aligned (19.8%). Children in the low-aligned profile engaged in significantly less moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and demonstrated poorer physical fitness than children in all other profiles. Notably, over-perceivers exhibited MVPA levels comparable to children with average and high motor competence, despite their low actual competence. However, fitness levels remained lower among all children with reduced actual motor competence, regardless of perceived competence. These findings suggest that perceived motor competence may buffer against low motor competence-related declines in physical activity, though not in physical fitness. Findings highlight the potential utility of targeting perceived competence in motor skill interventions, particularly among children at risk of DCD, to enhance physical activity engagement. Interventions that simultaneously address actual and perceived competence may offer a promising strategy to support physical development in this population. • Four distinct profiles based on actual and perceived motor competence were identified. • Low-aligned children (low actual/perceived) were less physically active. • Over-perceivers (low actual, high perceived) matched their peers physical activity levels. • All children with lower actual motor competence were less physically fit. • Targeting perceived competence may be beneficial in DCD motor skill interventions.

Source: Psychology of sport and exercise

DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103086

Authors: Matthew Bourke, Kathryn Fortnum, Sara King-Dowling, MatthewY.W. Kwan, John Cairney

Institutions: The University of Queensland, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Brock University, McMaster University

Language: English

Topic: Children's Physical and Motor Development

Subfield: Developmental and Educational Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,570