Mood changes in the school population due to social isolation related to the practice of physical activity

Abstract

The irruption of SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19, meant an important change in the world population. In Spain, the containment and eradication measures imposed by the Government contemplated long periods of home confinement that had important consequences for the health and habits of the infant-juvenile population. These measures, which lasted from March to June 2020, led to changes in eating habits, a decrease in the practice of sports and recreational physical activities and an increase in sedentary activities. However, years after the end of this pandemic, there are still important sequelae in the population directly related to mental health, emotional well-being and moods. The objective of this study was to determine the impact on the mood of a sample of children due to home confinement related to the practice of physical activity. Methods: 50 children from the Community of Cantabria (Spain) aged 11-12 years (n = 50; M = 11.40; SD = 0.50) participated, 33 (66%) boys and 17 (34%) girls. The Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaire and an ad hoc questionnaire were used for sociodemographic data and other relevant information. Results: Comparative analysis of mood states preconfinement and during confinement showed a decrease in values for all mood states assessed by the POMS: tension, depression, anger, confusion, fatigue and vigor. There were no statistically significant differences between boys and girls. Conclusions: The study evidences that home confinement caused changes in mood states in boys and girls between 11 and 12 years of age in relation to the practice of physical activity.