THE IMPACT OF SPORTS PARTICIPATION ON ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH: A COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to examine if female adolescent athletes demonstrated changes on mental health measures 6-months after the end of a sport season compared to an immediate post-season assessment, and whether those who were actively playing sports 6-months after the end of the season reported different mental health ratings compared to athletes who were not. The methods involved participants undergoing three assessments: a pre-season, immediate post-season, and final 6-month post-season assessment on measures of anxiety ratings, depressive symptoms, grit, peer relationships, fatigue, and body appreciation.