Relationship between Alexithymia, Cognitive Failure and Healthy Risk Behaviors: The Mediator Role of Physical Activity

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of motor behaviour, Faculty of physical education and sport sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran. Brain & Movement research group, Research Center of Biosciences and Biotechnology (RCBB) University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.

2 Brain & Movement research group, Research Center of Biosciences and Biotechnology (RCBB) University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran. Department of Psychology, Education and Psychology, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.

3 Department of motor behaviour, Faculty of physical education and sport sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this research was to investigate the relationship between cognitive failure, alexithymia, physical activity and healthy risk behaviours in students.

Methods: In regard to the purpose, this research was applicable and in regard to procedure, it was a correlation study. The study community included all students of Misan University of Iraq in 2023, that among them 186 students selected as samples by cluster sampling. Research questionnaires included: Toronto Alexithymia scale, Cognitive failures questionnaire, Baeck physical activity questionnaire and Risky, Impulsive, and Self-Destructive Behavior Questionnaire. Data were analysed by Pearson's correlation coefficient and path analysis by SPSS23 and LISREL 8.8 at p≤0.05.

Results: The results showed that there is a negative relationship between physical activity with alexithymia, cognitive failure, healthy risk behaviours, gambling, impulsive eating, and reckless behaviours. Also, a positive relationship was shown between physical activity and aggression. Finally, the complete conceptual model was significant.

Conclusion: Results was discussed by positive effects of physical activity on mood, and regular participation in physical activity with time commitment, creating a reward and encouragement system, forming positive behavioural habits, and reducing behavioural impulsivity. On the other hand, regular participation in physical activity was considered as a coping strategy and a change in energy direction to regulate aggressiveness.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Sports Psychology
Volume 17, Issue 2
February 2025
Pages 183-198

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History

  • Receive Date: 22 July 2024
  • Revise Date: 27 October 2024
  • Accept Date: 30 April 2025

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