How does physical exercise influence self-efficacy in adolescents? A study based on the mediating role of psychological resilience

This study explores the influence of physical exercise on self-efficacy in adolescents, focusing on the mediating role of psychological resilience. By analyzing direct and indirect pathways, the study provides insights into the psychological mechanisms linking physical activity and self-efficacy. METHOD: Data were collected from 1,613 adolescent participants across 15 provinces in China using validated questionnaires to measure physical exercise, psychological resilience, and self-efficacy. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test direct and mediated effects, while multi-group invariance testing examined gender differences.

Physical exercise significantly predicts both psychological resilience (β = 0.410, p