An Investigation into the Effects of Subjective Feelings of Physical Activity Enjoyment and the Objective Features of Physical Activity on Positive and Negative Mental Health
Year: 2015
Type: dissertation
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Objective: Extensive research suggests that physical activity (PA) has substantial benefits for our psychological health, this study also investigates the effects that enjoyment of PA has on our mental health. \n \nMethodology: 201 participants (99 males and 102 females) completed standard demographic questions and then a number of questionnaires; the General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12), the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire-short form (OHQ-S), the UCLA Loneliness Scale (LS), the Social Support Questionnaire (SSQ), the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-short form (IPAQ-S) and the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PAES). The data was analysed using standard multiple regression. \n \nResults: PA had no predictive effect on mental health when enjoyment of PA was controlled for. Social support and enjoyment of PA were the two highest predictors of positive mental health. \n \nConclusion: Results suggest that it is the individual’s subjective feelings rather than the objective PA that predicted positive mental health. Existing literature, the implications and intentions for future research are also discussed.
Author: Ciara Buggle
Language: English
Topic: Physical Activity and Health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W1831111439