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Book: Psychology for Physical Educators
Authors: Auweele, Y.V, Bakker, F., Biddle, S., Durand, M. & Seiler, R.
Reviewer: : Nanci Coolen, Middle School Physical Education teacher, Honolulu, Hawaii
Publishing Company: Human Kinetics (1999)
Pages: 536
Price: $47
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Psychology for Physical Educators is a well written interesting and enlightening text designed for students, educators, administrators, as well as anyone interested in the "whole" student. The book was written by specialists from various European countries, and provides a new angle and approach to teaching students in Physical Education.

The book begins it's first few sections discussing traditional areas of Physical Education, such as motor skills, and physical development from a psychological point of view. Then, Sections IV and V capture the reader as the authors break away from traditional American texts and enlighten readers about the "whole" student by providing knowledge and research on areas such as moral development in Physical Education. The concept of "right vs. wrong" and solving conflicts are examined as a major part of Physical Education classes. These two sections discuss, in depth, the development of social skills, positive self perceptions, and the importance of these concepts in Physical Education.

The authors recommend that P.E. curricula should include four domains: physical and motor development, health and fitness, the development of positive self-perceptions, and the development of social skills. The European philosophy is to "produce happy, healthy people" who through Physical Education will improve their psychosocial well-being throughout their lifetime.

The text is interesting, lively, and includes helpful and informative tables, graphs, pictures, and drawings. It would be helpful reading to any educator or administrator looking for arguments for more physical education courses. This would also be an excellent textbook for students in physical education programs, as it provides good key points and review questions at the end of each chapter.

In conclusion, I would highly recommend this book to any individual involved in middle school curriculum, as it examines the social side of Physical Education that is such an important part of students of this age.

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