Original scientific paper

https://doi.org/10.46733/PESH2514235m

Abstract

This study explored how regularly engaging in sports influences the physical and psychological growth of middle adolescents. It also compared these adolescents to those who do not take part in any sports activities.The study’s purposive sample included two groups; one group of 50 sixteen-year-old adolescents who regularly participated in sports; the other group of 50 sixteen-year-old adolescents who did not engage in any sports activities. In total, 100 mid adolescent students from Albania’s capital, Tirana, took part in the research. Standardized methods were used to assess anthropometric indicators (height, weight, BMI) as well as perceived stress levels using the PSS-10 scale. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied, including correlation analysis and independent samples t-tests. Analysis of the data showed that the two adolescent groups differed significantly. Athletes presented significantly lower body weight (M = 61.840 ± 6.140 kg) compared to non-athletes (M = 78.780 ± 5.830 kg), with a t-value of–14.140 (p<0.001). Similarly, athletes displayed a lower BMI (M = 20.990 ± 1.960) than non-athletes (M = 26.230 ± 1.62), reflected by a strong statistical difference (t = –14.550, p < 0.001). Perceived stress also differed substantially: athletes scored an average of 9.202 ± 3.620, whereas non-athletes scored 20.260 ± 4.770 (t = –13.030, p < 0.001), indicating markedly higher stress levels among inactive students. Height was the only variable without a significant difference (p = 0.0830). Correlation analysis revealed strong positive associations between weight and BMI (r = .730), BMI and stress (r = .5470), and weight and stress (r = .7120), suggesting that higher body mass is linked to increased psychological stress. The results indicate that engaging in regular sports is associated with improved body composition and notably reduced stress levels among.

Key words: Physical activity, adolescents, BMI, stress, health.
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