The impact of physical exercise on prosocial behavior among migrant children: the longitudinal mediating role of peer relationships

This study examined the longitudinal relationships among physical exercise, peer relationships, and prosocial behavior in migrant children. Using the Physical Exercise Questionnaire, the Peer Relationship Scale, and the Prosocial Behavior Tendency Scale, a three-wave longitudinal survey was conducted over a six-month period (T1, T2, T3) among 712 migrant children. The results revealed that: (1) physical exercise, peer relationships, and prosocial behavior were significantly correlated both concurrently and over time; (2) cross-lagged analyses showed reciprocal positive predictive effects between physical exercise and prosocial behavior; (3) longitudinal mediation analyses indicated that T1 physical exercise positively predicted T3 prosocial behavior through T2 peer relationships, and T1 prosocial behavior predicted T3 physical exercise via T2 peer relationships; (4) peer relationships played a longitudinal mediating role in the association between physical exercise and prosocial behavior.These findings elucidate the dynamic interplay between physical exercise, peer relationships, and prosocial behavior. They highlight the potential of structured physical activities—particularly those fostering positive peer interactions—as a viable public health strategy to enhance the psychosocial well-being and social integration of migrant children. Future public health initiatives should consider these modifiable factors when designing scalable interventions for this vulnerable population.