Comparative effects of participation in a physical fitness training program : versus a physical education class on mood and self-image in adolescents

Author

Dennis John Moran

Date of Award

12-1984

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Major

Psychology

Major Professor

Kenneth R. Newton

Abstract

Recently, interest in the relationship between physical fitness and mental health has increased. Some authors have suggested that increases in physical fitness are accompanied by increases in psychological well-being, in both adolescent and adult populations. Unfortunately, much of the research in this area has suffered from methodological flaws which have rendered the findings difficult to interpret.

This study was conducted in an effort to assess the relationship between initial fitness level and psychological well-being, as measured by scores on standardized indices of mood and self-image. An effort was also made to assess the impact of physical fitness training on a sample of normal adolescents. Fifty-six high school students who were enrolled in Physical Education classes served as subjects. While it was predicted that adolescents who participated in a seven-week physical fitness training program would evidence positive changes on mood and self-image measures when compared to adolescents who participated in a control group, this prediction was not supported. Possible motivational explanations for these findings are discussed along with implications for further research.

Recommended Citation

Moran, Dennis John, "Comparative effects of participation in a physical fitness training program : versus a physical education class on mood and self-image in adolescents. " PhD diss., University of Tennessee, 1984.
https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk_graddiss/12930