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The relationship between physical activity and self-image and problem behaviour among adolescents
B D Kirkcaldy1, R J Shephard, R G Siefen
1International Center for the Study of Occupational and Mental Health, Haydnstrasse 61, 40593 Duesseldorf, Germany. Bruce.Kirkcaldy@t-online.de
Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology
|October 24, 2002
Summary
Regular endurance exercise in adolescents is linked to better self-image and psychological well-being. Physical activity also correlates with lower anxiety-depression and reduced risk of addiction.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Health
- Sports Science
- Psychology
Background:
- Limited research exists on exercise benefits for children and adolescents.
- This study investigates endurance sport participation in German high-school students.
Purpose of the Study:
- Examine associations between endurance sport and self-image.
- Assess links to physical and psychological health.
- Understand impact on overall lifestyle in adolescents.
Main Methods:
- Surveyed nearly 1000 German adolescents (aged 14-18).
- Assessed anxiety-depression, addiction proneness, substance use, and physical health.
- Measured self-perception, parental acceptance, and educational attainment.
Main Results:
- Endurance exercise correlated with more favorable self-image.
- Strong association found between sports participation and addiction resistance.
- Physical activity linked to higher physical and psychological well-being scores.
- Active adolescents had lower anxiety-depression and social inhibition.
Conclusions:
- Exercise discussion can facilitate dialogue on body image and self-esteem in adolescents.
- Physical activity offers psychotherapeutic benefits for adolescents.
- Promoting fitness may improve social feedback and self-image through enhanced physique and peer recognition.