A Study of the Relationship Between Anxiety Levels and Participation in Sports Activities Among a Sample of Preparatory Year Students at King Faisal University

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between sports activities and anxiety levels among preparatory year students at King Faisal University, with a focus on gender differences. Anxiety, a prominent challenge in modern society, significantly affects university students due to rapid technological changes and academic pressures, particularly during the preparatory year. The preparatory year is a critical phase for students as they transition into university life, often accompanied by psychological, mental, and physiological stress.
The study employed a descriptive analytical approach to examine the impact of sports activities on reducing different types of anxiety, including state anxiety, test anxiety, and future anxiety. The results revealed an inverse relationship between participation in sports activities and anxiety levels, with male and female participants demonstrating lower anxiety levels compared to non-participants. A strong positive correlation was found between the anxiety levels of male and female non-participants, indicating higher anxiety among those not engaged in sports.
These findings align with previous studies that emphasize the positive role of sports activities in alleviating psychological disturbances, including anxiety, verbal aggression, and physical aggression, particularly in university settings. The study highlights the importance of integrating recreational and sports activities into university programs to reduce anxiety and support students' mental well-being.
The study recommends planning age-appropriate sports programs, easing exam procedures, incorporating practical activities in curricula, and conducting further research on anxiety during the university phase. Additionally, it suggests offering workshops and counseling sessions to strengthen students' psychological resilience and adaptation skills during their preparatory year. These measures aim to enhance students' academic performance and overall mental health.