The effect of physical exercise, coping, optimism and social support on overall psychological wellbeing
Authors
Khan, Aaisha
Issue Date
2022
Degree
Higher Diploma in Psychology
Publisher
Dublin Business School
Rights holder
Rights
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Abstract
This quantitative and correlational study surveyed Irish adults to examine the effect exercise has on mental wellbeing, more specifically the types, frequency and social characteristics of exercise. Psychological wellbeing was measured based on life satisfaction, stress and happiness. Other variables; social support, coping, optimism and personality were also investigated. Participants were (n = 97) with slightly more females (60) than males (37). Participants were sourced through social media where the studies questionnaire was posted. Respondents exercise was measured by type, frequency and social characteristics. No statistically significant results were found between exercise and psychological wellbeing, which contrasts to previous research. The main conclusions did not conform to previous research which states personality, exercise frequency, exercise type and more social exercise have a substantial influence on life satisfaction, happiness, and stress. However, it did find a substantial influence of coping, optimism and social support on participants overall psychological wellbeing.