How does physical education influence university students' psychological health? An analysis from the dual perspectives of social support and exercise behavior.

Han, Xu; Li, Haozhen; Niu, Ling

Objective: Physical education, as a central component of educational systems, plays a unique role in enhancing the psychological well-being of university students. This study investigates the impacts of physical education on students' mental health and examines the mediating roles of social support and exercise behavior. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using the Physical Education Satisfaction Scale, SCL-90, the Social Support Questionnaire, and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. A total of 1,437 university students were assessed. Results: The research found a positive correlation between physical education at universities and students' mental health, with a direct significant effect (β = 0.622, p < 0.001). Moreover, physical education positively influenced social support and exercise behavior (β = 0.523, p < 0.001; β = 0.473, p < 0.001). In turn, social support significantly fostered exercise behavior and improved mental health (β = 0.578, p < 0.001; β = 0.277, p < 0.001). Additionally, enhanced exercise behavior positively contributed to better mental health (β = 0.357, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Physical education is a crucial influencing factor for university students' psychological health and also indirectly impacts mental well-being through improved social support and increased exercise behavior.

MENTAL health of students; SOCIAL support; PSYCHOLOGICAL well-being; SOCIALIZATION; MENTAL health education

Frontiers in Psychology, 2025, p1

1664-1078

Academic Journal

10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1457165