Effects of Physical Exercise on Social-Emotional Competence of Chinese University Students: The Chain-Mediated Effects of Perceived Social Support and Self-Efficacy.

Abstract

Social-emotional competence is crucial for college students' development, adaptation, and social service ability, and is regarded as a core competence in the current era. This study investigated the effects of physical exercise on college students' social-emotional competence and the mediating role of perceived social support and self-efficacy. From February to April 2025, 3,643 Chinese college students were tested using convenience sampling and relevant scales. Structural equation modeling with the bootstrap method was used for analysis. The results showed a significant positive correlation between physical exercise and social-emotional competence. Physical exercise contributed positively to social-emotional competence, perceived social support, and self-efficacy. Similarly, perceived social support played a positive role in self-efficacy and social-emotional competence, and significant mediating effects were observed across the three paths. These findings have implications for promoting college students' physical and mental health.