Physical activity, approach-avoidance temperament and depressive symptoms

Abstract

The goal was to assess the connections between vigorous physical activity (VPA), approach-avoidance temperament and depressive symptoms. Two studies were conducted. Study 1, correlational, to assess the mediating role of both dimensions of temperament, the approach-avoidance contrast, between physical activity and depressive symptoms. Participants, 335 college students, completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, the Depressive Symptoms Scale (DSS) and the Approach-Avoidance Temperament Questionnaire (Ap-AvTQ). Results showed that the approach-avoidance contrast could be considered a potential mediator between VPA and depressive symptoms. The global model was significant, F(2, 351)=3.22, p