Exercise behaviour as a predictor of stress and psychological well-being in adults
Authors
Clarke, Christopher
Issue Date
2015
Degree
BA (Hons) in Psychology
Publisher
Dublin Business School
Rights holder
Rights
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Abstract
This study examines the effect of exercise in reducing stress and improving well-being in Irish adults. A total of 160 participants completed a questionnaire which evaluated each of these variables. The sample was divided into 3 groups; high, moderate or low exercise group according to their reported levels of physical activity. The study was cross-sectional, correlational and quantitative in nature, using a between-participants design. The results of a one-way analysis of variance showed that those participants who exercised at a high level reported significantly less stress and higher psychological well-being than those who exercised at a low level. No significant difference was found with the moderate exercise group. In conclusion, results obtained suggest that higher levels of exercise reduce stress and improve psychological well-being in adults. Authors keywords: exercise, stress, well-being