Sports Engagement, Personal Growth and Mental Well-being among University Students in Pakistan

Abstract

This research examines the correlation of sports activity engagement with personal growth and mental well-being among university students in Pakistan. Sports is often associated with improved physical health but its association with maintaining mental well-being is often overlooked. Students in Pakistan are often discouraged from participating in sports as it is considered disadvantageous for the students’ academic career. This study aims to change this perception by assuming a positive correlation between sports, personal growth and mental health of students. By using the cross-sectional method of research, data was collected from 150 students enrolled at different universities in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The Physical Activity Rating Scale-3 Questionnaire, Personal Growth Initiative Scale Questionnaire, and Mental Well-Being Scale Questionnaire were used. The finding of the study showed that a significant positive correlation exists between sports participation and personal growth (r = .184*) as well as between sports participation and mental well-being (r = .242**) of university students. The finding of the study has shown that university students who join sports have the ability to gain discipline, control of emotion, as well as attain well-being.