Exploring Physical Activity as a Moderator of Appearance-Related Emotions and Mental Health

Appearance-related self-conscious emotions (e.g., shame, guilt, authentic and hubristic pride) are important correlates of poor mental health. Although physical activity (PA) is a well-established protective factor for poor mental health, its role in the relationship between appearance-related emotions and symptoms of depression and anxiety remains underexplored. This study examined whether PA moderated the associations between appearance-related emotions and symptoms of depression and anxiety in emerging adults. Participants (N=298; Mage[SD]=23.55[3.78]; 65% women) completed online self-report measures of PA (Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire), appearance-related emotions (BASES), and poor mental health symptoms (PHQ-9, GAD-7). PA was dichotomized as “active” or “inactive” using standard MET cutoffs. Controlling for age and gender, a MANCOVA revealed a significant multivariate effect of PA status on appearance-related emotions and poor mental health symptoms (F(6, 257)=2.66, p =.015). Active students reported significantly higher appearance-related authentic (p.05). Bivariate correlations and linear regressions showed significant associations (ps