Effect of Training Type on Social and Cognitive Skills among 8-10-Year-Old Children

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Motor Behaviour and Sport Psychology, Isf.C., Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran.

2 Department of Sports Science, Na.C., Islamic Azad University, Najafabad, Iran.

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of a period of SPARK training, sports vision training, and purposeful games on the cognitive and social skills of children aged 8 to 10 years.

Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted using a pretest–posttest design with a control group. The statistical population included all children aged 8 to 10 years in District 1 of Khorramabad City. The sample was selected through convenience–random sampling and divided into four groups (SPARK, sports vision, purposeful games, and control). Data collection instruments included the N-back test and the Achenbach Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). The interventions were implemented over eight weeks in 24 sessions. Data were analyzed using MANCOVA.

Results: The results showed that all three interventions significantly improved cognitive performance in the complex N-back task (accuracy index) (p<0.05), but no significant differences were observed between their effectiveness. This indicates the importance of structured physical activity, regardless of type, in promoting cognitive functions. At the same time, none of the interventions had a significant effect on simple reaction time (basic processing speed index). Moreover, SPARK training and purposeful games significantly improved children’s social skills, which can be attributed to the interactive and group-based nature of these activities. In contrast, sports vision training did not show a significant impact on social skills.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that structured physical activities, especially group-oriented programs such as SPARK and purposeful games, can serve as practical and cost-effective strategies for simultaneously enhancing children’s cognitive and social development.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Sports Psychology

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 21 January 2026

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History

  • Receive Date: 23 April 2024
  • Revise Date: 14 June 2024
  • Accept Date: 11 August 2024

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