Long-term effects of childhood sport participation and social support on social anxiety: Findings from a 15-year longitudinal study in Switzerland

Abstract Aim This longitudinal study examined the association between childhood sports participation and changes in social anxiety. Subject and methods The study followed 20 children from 2007 to 2022. Social anxiety was measured using the Social Phobia and Anxiety Inventory for Children (SPAI-C in 2007) and SPAI (in 2022). Perceived social support was measured using the German Questionnaire for Social Support. A multilevel model using a repeated-measures approach was used to analyze the relationship between childhood sports participation, social support, and changes in social anxiety. Results Social anxiety decreased significantly over time. Childhood sports participation of more than 2 h/week was associated with a reduction in social anxiety. Sport mode was not significantly associated with social anxiety. Perceived social support was a confounder of the association, resulting in a stronger association between individual sports and a reduction in social anxiety. Conclusion These findings suggest the potential long-term beneficial effects of childhood sports participation on reducing social anxiety.