Relationship between Amount, Type, Enjoyment of Physical Activity and Physical Education Performance with Cyberbullying in Adolescents

Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021 Feb 19;18(4):2038. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18042038.

Abstract

(1) Background: Cyberbullying is a social concern in adolescents. The practice of physical activity is a key factor in protection against cyberbullying related to the multiple psychological benefits. Therefore, the study sets out to analyse the relationship between amount, types, enjoyment of physical activity and performance in physical education with cyberbullying. (2) Methods: A sample of 867 adolescents between 12 and 19 years of age from two schools in Andalusia (Spain) was studied. A computer-based questionnaire given in the classroom was used, with two questions about the type of physical activity, one on physical education performance, the Scale of Enjoyment of Physical Activity (PACES) and the Spanish version of the European Cyberbullying Intervention Project Questionnaire (ECIPQ). (3) Results: Clear relationships were found between the practice of physical activity and cybervictimisation. However, less involvement has been observed among girls who practice physical activity in cyberaggression. (4) Conclusions: In relation to the types of physical activity, it seems that practising physical activities that involve competition can help to develop defence mechanisms against cyberaggression, as well as improve values to be less involved in cyberaggression.

Keywords: adolescence; cyberbullying; physical activity; social media.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Bullying* / prevention & control
  • Crime Victims*
  • Cyberbullying*
  • Exercise
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Physical Education and Training
  • Pleasure