Humanistic Qualities in Physical Education: A Systematic Review and Meta-Synthesis

Physical education is increasingly expected to support holistic development, yet the humanistic qualities developed through physical education remain conceptually scattered across different fields and have not been systematically synthesized. This systematic review aimed to clarify the concept of humanistic qualities in physical education (HQIPE), its contents, cultivation pathways, influencing factors, and positive outcomes. Following PRISMA guidelines, 7 databases were searched from inception to January 2025. 51 studies were included, covering non-empirical, qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods research. The findings suggest that HQIPE should be understood not as a peripheral moral concern but as a multidimensional educational orientation. Five core dimensions were identified: ethics and morality, relationships, aesthetics and culture, personal development, and social responsibilities. These qualities were promoted through intentional curriculum design, teacher modeling, reflective pedagogy, and culturally meaningful movement experiences. The review highlights HQIPE as an important framework for clarifying the broader educational purpose of physical education.