Psychology of physical activity: A 30-year reflection on physical activity and mental health research
Oral Presentation C6.1
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.675Keywords:
Exercise Psychology, Mental Health, TrendsAbstract
Background: The first English language authored textbook on exercise psychology was published 30 years ago (Biddle & Mutrie, 1991, Psychology of Physical Activity & Exercise). With the publication of the 4th edition of the follow-up to this book in 2021 (Biddle, Mutrie, Gorely & Faulkner, 2021, Psychology of Physical Activity), it allows for a 30-year retrospective view of changes in this field. Purpose: To review progress concerning physical activity and mental health since the 1st edition and speculate on future developments. Results: Research has grown beyond typical mental outcomes (e.g., depression, self-esteem) with marked increase in cognitive functioning across the lifespan. With recognition of cognitive impairment as a transdiagnostic concern this research focus will expand. The use of large prospective studies is much more evident and this has increased the evidence base considerably. Bi-directional effects between the physical activity and mental health remain uncertain and should remain a research focus. While there is recognition of the multiple mechanisms for linking physical activity and mental health the evidence is somewhat speculative and repetitious. There has been limited progress over the past decade although the importance of definitively identifying mechanisms of action can be questioned. Given the mature evidence base for clinical populations (e.g., depression) a future focus must remain on moving from efficacy to effectiveness and real-world implementation. Conclusions: These trends reflect our changes in understanding across the 30 years of the textbook publication process and suggest future research directions for those interested in the field of physical activity for health.
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Copyright (c) 2021 Guy Faulkner, Stuart Biddle, Nanette Mutrie, Trish Gorely
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