ERIC Number: EJ1389360
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2023
Pages: 9
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0744-8481
EISSN: EISSN-1940-3208
Modeling Extracurricular Activity Participation with Physical and Mental Health in College Students over Time
Journal of American College Health, v71 n4 p1232-1240 2023
Objective: To describe extracurricular activity participation and explore its relationship with college students' health. Participants: 159 college students majoring in dental hygiene or occupational therapy. Methods: Data were collected prospectively at baseline, one- and two-year follow-ups. Self-reported participation in extracurricular activities over the past six months was grouped into eight categories: Fitness, Sports, Creative arts, Leisure, Social, Work, Caregiving, and Animal care. Physical and mental health were measured using SF-36, a valid tool measuring general health. Results: Participation in fitness, sports, creative arts, and work significantly decreased at one-year and two-year follow-ups (p < 0.01). Work/volunteer activity participation was associated with poorer physical health ([beta] = -1.4, 95% CI: (-2.2, -0.5), p < 0.01), but a change from nonparticipation to some participation in work/volunteer activity was associated with better mental health ([beta] = 2.6, 95% CI (0.3, 4.9), p = 0.04). Conclusions: Educators should consider the potential impact of maintaining extracurricular activities on college students' health when designing academic courses.
Descriptors: Extracurricular Activities, College Students, Student Participation, Health, Dentistry, Allied Health Personnel, Occupational Therapy, Allied Health Occupations Education, Physical Health, Mental Health, Physical Fitness, Athletics, Art Activities, Leisure Time, Social Life, Employment, Caregivers, Animals, Volunteers
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (DHHS/PHS)
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: R01OH010665