Izvorni znanstveni članak
Sports, Exercise and Mental Health among Individuals with Disabilities: A Cross-Sectional Study
Dragan Glavaš
orcid.org/0000-0002-5950-855X
; University Department of Psychology Catholic University of Croatia Zagreb, Croatia
*
Lara Puhovski
; University Department of Psychology Catholic University of Croatia Zagreb, Croatia
Krunoslav Matešić
orcid.org/0000-0003-3568-2892
; University Department of Psychology Catholic University of Croatia Zagreb, Croatia
* Dopisni autor.
Sažetak
Background: Engaging in physical activity (PA) offers substantial benefi ts for both physical and mental health, which is particularly signifi cant for vulnerable populations, including individuals with disabilities. Research indicates that PA can enhance mental well-being in these groups, though more studies are needed to fully understand this relationship. Aim: The aim of this study was to examine the differences in mental health indicators among individuals with disabilities, comparing those who participate in sports and exercise with those who do not. Methods: We conducted an Internet-based cross-sectional study in 2024, using a nonprobability (convenience) sample. Participants reported their involvement in sports and exercise and completed scales to assess psychological well-being, life satisfaction, and positive and negative affects. Results: The study included 120 adults with disabilities, with an average age of 43.13 years. The fi ndings indicated that categorised athletes, uncategorised athletes, and recreationally active individuals reported higher life satisfaction (F(2,111)=8.60, p < 0.001, ηp 2=0.13) and positive affect (F(2,104), p=001, ηp 2=0.12) compared to physically inactive individuals, with categorised athletes reporting the highest levels of life satisfaction. Additionally, while negative affect was consistent across all groups, the results suggested that active uncategorised athletes and recreationally active individuals had higher psychological well-being than those who were physically inactive. Conclusion: The study suggests that active participation in sports and recreational physical activities may play a signifi cant role in enhancing the mental health of individuals with disabilities, potentially leading to greater life satisfaction and positive outcomes among athletes and recreationally active individuals. These fi ndings support public health initiatives and policies that promote physically active lifestyles, which may contribute to improved mental well-being.
Ključne riječi
physical activity; mental health; disabled persons; sports; life satisfaction; psychological well-being
Hrčak ID:
334387
URI
Datum izdavanja:
2.12.2024.
Posjeta: 289 *