Personality, negative affectivity and emotional intelligence: gender-differentiated relationships with physical
Yolanda Campos-Uscanga1, Vianey Argüelles-Nava1, Aurora Mejia-Castillo2
1Institute of Public Health, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico.
Frontiers in Psychology
|December 15, 2023
Summary
Understanding psychological factors in physical exercise is key, as women engage less than men. Distinct approaches are needed, considering gender-specific links between personality, emotional intelligence, and exercise habits.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Psychology
Background:
- Physical activity is crucial for disease prevention, yet participation rates are suboptimal.
- Understanding psychological determinants of exercise behavior in both men and women is essential for promoting public health.
- Existing research often overlooks gender-specific psychological influences on physical activity engagement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the differential relationships between personality traits, emotional intelligence, and negative affect with physical exercise characteristics in men and women.
- To identify gender-specific psychological factors influencing the frequency, duration, and commitment to physical exercise.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 579 physically active adults (aged 18-59, 61.1% male).
- Utilized validated instruments: Big Five Inventory (BFI-15p) for personality, Brief Emotional Intelligence Scale (EQ-i-M20), and Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21).
Main Results:
- Women reported fewer exercise days/minutes weekly, shorter participation history, and less exercise variety compared to men.
- Women scored lower in stress management, adaptability, and general mood, but higher in interpersonal intelligence.
- Men's sustained exercise commitment correlated with higher general mood and extraversion; women's exercise duration was negatively associated with depression.
Conclusions:
- Psychological factors influencing physical exercise differ significantly between genders.
- Tailored interventions considering gender-specific personality traits and emotional intelligence profiles are necessary to enhance exercise participation.
- Addressing depression in women may be crucial for long-term exercise adherence.
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