Physical activity, cognitive and psychosocial functioning in a preadolescent sample

Abstract

The objective of this study was to analyze the differences in various variables of cognitive and psychosocial functioning, as well as physical condition between two groups of preteens depending on the amount of weekly physical practice they performed. The sample consisted of 149 participants (113 preadolescent) with ages between 10 to 13 years old (M= 11.60; DT= 0.49). Regarding the cognitive function analysis, it was used the D2 Attentiveness questionnaire, the interference and paths of the battery of Neuropsychological Evaluation of the Executive Functions in Children (ENFEN) and the tests of search of symbols and keys of the Intelligence Scale for children (WISC-IV). The tests or tools used to size up the psychosocial wellness were the Self-concept Questionnaire Form 5 (AF5) and the Self-efficacy scale for children (EAN). In regard to the physical condition, Speed test 5x1, Course Navette test and Horizontal jump test were used. The results discharged by the research showed highest results in physical condition (e.g., VO2max= p < .001; d’ Cohen= 0.85, 95% IC [0.51, 1.18]), cognitive (e.g., Processing speed= p< .05; d’ Cohen= 0.44, 95% IC [0.11, 0.77]) and psychosocial functioning (e.g., Physical self-concept= p< .001; d’ Cohen= 0.69, 95% IC [0.35, 1.02]) in the participants who perform more physical activity per week. These results are congruent with previous research and suggest the need to promote physical practice among children and adolescents for their health and well-being implications.