Physical education and training has a positive effect on mental health in adolescents and young adults
Authors
Lyng, Tracey
Issue Date
2008
Degree
BA in Psychology
Publisher
Dublin Business School
Rights holder
Rights
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Abstract
This current study examined 80 participants ranging from sports participants, individual exercisers and non-exercisers to examine the effects between sport and positive mental health. Participants completed three questionnaires-the Perceived Stress Questionnaire (PPS), the Reasons for Exercise Inventory (REI) and the Brief Cope Questionnaire to rate feelings and coping abilities. Results showed no significant difference between the three groups and perceived stress (f(2,79)=3.357, p>0.05). However, there was a significant difference between groups and mood (f(2,79)=1204.507, p<0.05). While there was no significant difference in PSS and gender in general, (f(1,79)=3.303, p>0.05) there was a significant difference between gender and mood levels (f(1,79)=247.611, p<0.05). In addition results showed that coping strategy factor 2 avoidance-focused had a significant main effect on stress (f(1,21)=58.134, p<0.05). Results indicate that sport and exercise could be used as an intervention for positive mental health especially in relation to mood and coping strategies.