Physical Activity, Boredom and Fear of COVID-19 Among Adolescents in Germany

Abstract

BackgroundThe effectiveness of physical activity (PA) as an intervention against anxiety disorders and depression is undeniable in clinical psychology. Therefore, the question arose whether these effects also occur when a fear stimulus, like the COVID-19 pandemic, affects otherwise healthy adolescents. Boredom is closely linked to symptoms of fear and anxiety, but the connection between PA, boredom and fear is partly unclear.MethodsA cross-sectional online study was conducted that involved 122 students. Participants were 13–19 years old (Mage = 15.83, SD = 1.73). The survey was available online from April 27th to May 3rd, 2020. At this time, schools in Germany had already been closed for 6 weeks. A self-report questionnaire was used to measure physical activity, boredom, and fear of COVID-19. A multiple linear regression model was conducted.ResultsThe reported fear of COVID-19 significantly correlates with total PA, quantity of strenuous PA, and boredom. Furthermore, a significant regression equation was found. The variables boredom, PA, and age contribute significantly to predicting the fear of COVID-19 [R2 = 0.127, F(3,118) = 6.876, p < 0.000], among adolescents.ConclusionOur results indicate that there is an association between PA, boredom and the quarantine experience of adolescents. Students who were physically more active, especially with strenuous intensity, did not feel bored and showed less fear of COVID-19.

Well-being and its relationship with sports and physical activity of students during the coronavirus pandemic

“…This is in agreement with the results of the study by Bösselmann et al. ( 2021 ). They found an association between physical activity, boredom and quarantine experience.…”

“…In contrast, motives like relaxation fitness, health, boredom and loneliness gained in importance. This is in agreement with the results of the study by Bösselmann et al (2021). They found an association between physical activity, boredom and quarantine experience.…”

A Predictive Model of Pandemic Disaster Fear Caused by Coronavirus (COVID-19): Implications for Decision-Makers

“…High risk-perception toward COVID-19 was found in the community, with anxiety levels higher than in an influenza pandemic but lower than for the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-2003) outbreak [ 106 ]. Studying the same issue, Bösselmann et al [ 39 ] identified variables that predicted fear of coronavirus disease among adolescents including physical activity, age, and boredom, and then considered the association between physical activity, boredom, and quarantine experience. It was found that there was no boredom amongst physically active subjects, and they reported less fear of coronavirus disease [ 39 ].…”

“…Studying the same issue, Bösselmann et al [ 39 ] identified variables that predicted fear of coronavirus disease among adolescents including physical activity, age, and boredom, and then considered the association between physical activity, boredom, and quarantine experience. It was found that there was no boredom amongst physically active subjects, and they reported less fear of coronavirus disease [ 39 ]. In addition, predictors of fear included gender and the knowledge of the person diagnosed with coronavirus disease, while days spent in isolation were not a predictor of fear of the coronavirus disease, nor were they associated with feelings of loneliness [ 44 ].…”

“…Starting from the undeniable importance of physical activity in clinical psychology as a means of combating anxiety and depressive disorders, the question has been raised as to whether physical activity affects the impact of the fear stimulus associated with the pandemic on otherwise healthy adolescents [ 39 ]. Wright et al [ 40 ] confirmed that physical activity in adolescents is a protective factor during a pandemic, which can significantly suppress the negative effects of fear on their mental health and overall wellbeing.…”