Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and aggressive beliefs among adolescents: A chain mediation model

This study investigated the relationship between moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and aggressive beliefs in adolescents, with a focus on the mediating roles of regulatory emotional self-efficacy and self-disclosure. Participants were 433 secondary school students in Jiangsu Province, China, who completed measures of MVPA, regulatory emotional self-efficacy, self-disclosure, and aggressive beliefs. Results indicated that higher levels of MVPA were positively associated with regulatory emotional self-efficacy and self-disclosure, which, in turn, were negatively associated with aggressive beliefs. Regulatory emotional self-efficacy and self-disclosure individually mediated this relationship and also exerted a chain mediating effect. These findings suggest that engaging in regular physical activity can help adolescents manage emotions and express themselves, thereby reducing aggressive beliefs. This study offers practical insights for educators and policymakers aiming to foster safer, more supportive school environments.