Disparities in Motor Competence between Roma and Non-Roma Children in Croatia and Relations of Motor Competence, School Success and Social Economic Status

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate possible differences in the development of motor skills between native and Roma children in Northern Croatia, but also to establish relations of motor skills, school success and socioeconomic status. The sample of 114 children (57 Roma) of both gender (55 boys) were assessed by MABC-2. Social economic status was represented by the mother highest level of education, and grade point average represented academic success. Regarding motor performance 9 children fall in the categories of "motor impairment" or "risk for impairment", 7 of them were Roma minority. MANOVA (gender) x (ethnicity) was applied on manual dexterity, aiming and catching and balance and total standard score and both effects were significant (p=.000). Further univariate ANOVA's showed that the girls were better in manual dexterity (p=.000) and the boys in aiming and catching (p=.000). Non-Roma children performed better in manual dexterity (p=.000), balance (p=.000); and total test score (p=.000). Manual dexterity and ethnicity significantly (p=.000) predicted school success. Motor competence in Roma children was less developed than in native children. Poverty, parental-social but also environmental factors, significantly influence children's motor development.