Work

Physical exercise-induced mental health benefits in future physicians: a dual-chain mediation of peer support and professional identity formation

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Objective This study investigates the dual chain mediating roles of peer support and professional identity formation in the relationship between physical exercise and mental health among medical students. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 420 medical students in China, using structural equation modeling (SEM) to test hypothesized pathways. Results Exercise frequency demonstrated a significant direct association with better mental health (β = 0.28, P < 0.001). Two distinct mediating pathways were supported: (1) a significant serial mediation chain (exercise → peer support → professional identity → mental health; β = 0.044, P < 0.001) and (2) a significant parallel mediation chain (exercise → professional identity → mental health; β = 0.074, P < 0.001). Multi-group analysis revealed that the mediating role of professional identity was significantly stronger in clinical-year students (e.g., path from exercise to professional identity: Δβ = 0.10, P = 0.005). Limitations The cross-sectional design precludes causal inference, and the cultural and professional specificity of the sample may affect generalizability. Conclusion These findings highlight the complex psychosocial mechanisms through which exercise is associated with enhanced mental health in future physicians, with implications for targeted intervention design.

Source: Frontiers in Psychology

DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1640506

Authors: Kaiqi Liu, Kaili Pan, Dan Liang

Institutions: Fujian Medical University, China University of Geosciences (Beijing)

Language: English

Topic: Healthcare professionals’ stress and burnout

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801