Koidou, V.1*, Koidou, I.2, Kourtessis, T.1, Kouli, O.1, Antoniou, P.1, Karaoglanidis, A.2, Tsartsapakis I.2
1School of Physical Education & Sport Science, Faculty of Physical Education & Sport Sciences, Democritus University of Thrace, Komotini, 69100, Greece.
2Department of Physical Education & Sport Science at Serres, Faculty of Physical Education & Sport Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Ag Ioannis, Serres 62100, Greece.
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Abstract
The aim of the current study was the investigation of probable atypical developmental coordination disorders in Roma children with permanent residency. Additionally, there was an attempt to record this group’s physical activity in extra-curriculum, free-time activity and the body mass index as well as the possible relation between these variables.117 boys and girls, aged 10-12, took part in the research. They were divided into two groups, Roma (53%) and non-Roma (47%). For the data collection a demographic characteristics questionnaire, the Movement Assessment Battery for Children Checklist-2 and the Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire were used. The results analysis revealed a statistically significant correlation between race and developmental coordination disorders frequency for the age of 10, with Roma children excelling in frequent motor difficulties. The ages 11 and 12 didn’t showcase important evidence. There were not statistical significant differences concerning the participation intensity in extra-curriculum activities, but the results showed a significant relation between race and frequent involvement in long-duration physical activity, non-Roma children were more involved in such activities. In relation to the body mass index, the results showed a statistically significant difference between the race and the body mass index for all children and the race and girls. Our results suggest that more studies are needed to a possible relationship between developmental coordination disorders and race.
Keywords: Roma children; non-Roma children; developmental coordination disorders; physical activity; body weight; body mass index.
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