The predictive role of physical activity level on social anxiety, self-esteem and body image in female adolescent students

The aim of this study was to investigate the predictive role of physical activity levels on social anxiety, self-esteem and body image in female adolescent students. The method of the present study is descriptive-correlational. The statistical population of the study consisted of 12- to 16-year-old female students in district one of Miyaneh city, from which 160 students were selected as a sample by cluster random sampling from five schools. In order to collect data, questionnaires of general physical activity, Rosenberg self-esteem, Fisher body image and social anxiety of Watson and Friend were used. Data analysis was performed using Pearson correlation coefficient and linear regression analysis by Inter method. The results showed that there is a significant positive relationship between physical activity and social anxiety, self-esteem and body image. The results also showed the ability to predict students' social anxiety, self-esteem and body image based on their level of physical activity. So physical activity has a positive effect on the mental health of adolescent girls by improving social anxiety, self-esteem and body image. Therefore, it is recommended to provide the necessary training on lifestyle changes and increasing the amount of physical activity in female adolescents.