Physical Activity and College Students＇Subjective Well-being: The Mediating Roles of Basic Psychological Needs and Self-Efficacy

Abstract

Background and objective: Subjective well-being stands as a pivotal and comprehensive psychological indicator reflecting an individual's quality of life, often intertwined with physical activity. However, the intricate mechanisms through which physical activity influences an individual's subjective well-being remain less explored. Currently, scant research delves into the impact of physical activity on subjective well-being concerning cardiac dimensions such as basic psychological needs and self-efficacy. Consequently, this study aims to investigate the influence of physical activity on the subjective well-being of college students, examining the chain-mediated effects of basic psychological needs and self-efficacy. Methods: A total of 389 college students participated in this study, and data collection involved utilizing the Physical Activity Rating Scale, Subjective Well-Being Scale, Basic Psychological Needs Scale, and Self-Efficacy Scale. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS 24.0 to explore the chain mediating roles of basic psychological needs and self-efficacy in the effects of physical activity on college students' subjective well-being. Results: The findings revealed a significant positive correlation among physical activity, subjective well-being, basic psychological needs, and self-efficacy. Notably, physical activity influences college students' subjective well-being through the mediating roles of basic psychological needs and self-efficacy, with each playing a chain mediating role independently. Conclusion: Basic psychological needs and self-efficacy as integral chain mediators in elucidating the effects of physical activity on the subjective well-being of college students.