Abstract

Despite the widely held belief that physical activity can make a significant contribution to adolescents mental health, the research efforts have concentrated primarily on adults. Based on the assumption that multiple roles reduce psychological distress, the mental health advantage of boys vs. girls is examined as a function of multiple-role occupancy (academic and athletic). Well-being is defined in terms of adaptation to school life as reflected by indicators such as self-esteem, mastery and anxiety. Data from a survey of 2465 adolescents in Flanders produce no significantly higher rates for the possession of the two roles. It is concluded that, if a choice must be made, the focus should be on academics.

How to Cite:

De Rycke, L., (1995) “Sportparticipatie en welbevinden bij adolescenten: geslachts- en leeftijdsverschillen”, Tijdschrift voor Sociologie 16(2), 163–179. doi: https://doi.org/10.21825/sociologos.86219