The mediational role of positive youth development in the relationship between physical activity and health-related quality of life in adolescents from urban and rural environments

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyse the role of the 5Cs of Positive Youth Development (PYD) in the relationship between physical activity (PA) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL), in a sample of adolescents enrolled at public secondary schools in both rural and urban environments in Huelva (Spain). The sample comprised 418 adolescents (Mean age = 14.40; SD = 1.20; 53% boys). A cross-sectional design was employed. PA (PAQ-A), Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet (KIDMED), PYD and HRQoL (KIDSCREEN-27) were assessed using self-report questionnaires. The results indicated that adolescents from rural environments were more physically active and achieved higher scores in PYD and HRQoL dimensions compared to those from urban environments. Mediation analyses demonstrated that the competence dimension of PYD positively mediated the relationship between PA and HRQoL. Consequently, this study highlights the importance of implementing PA interventions considering PYD and its positive impact on HRQoL.