Volume 31, Issue 1 (3-2024)
RJMS 2024, 31(1): 1-9 |
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Research code: 01
Ethics code: IR.IAU.SARI.REC.1400.030
Clinical trials code: 01
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Nikkhakian F, Shojaei V, Hami M. The Outcomes of Physical Literacy Among Iranian Citizens. RJMS 2024; 31 (1) :1-9
URL: http://rjms.iums.ac.ir/article-1-8808-en.html
URL: http://rjms.iums.ac.ir/article-1-8808-en.html
Associate Professor, Department of Sport Management, Sari Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sari, Iran , shojaei.vahid@yahoo.com
Abstract: (70 Views)
Background & Aims: Physical literacy is a key concept in personal and social development, playing a fundamental role in empowering citizens to adopt an active and healthy lifestyle. This concept extends beyond basic physical skills and encompasses a set of cognitive, emotional, and social abilities that enable individuals to move effectively and confidently in various situations. As a sedentary lifestyle has become a major challenge in modern societies, physical literacy can play a vital role in mitigating problems caused by insufficient physical activity. Numerous studies have shown that the level of physical literacy among citizens has a direct impact on quality of life, physical and mental health, social participation, and academic performance. This concept not only improves physical fitness and helps prevent non-communicable diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases but also enhances individuals’ motivation to engage in physical activities by increasing their movement confidence. Developing physical literacy at an early age can lead to the formation of healthy and sustainable habits throughout life, whereas a lack of physical literacy may result in reduced participation in physical activities and an increased risk of physical and mental health issues in adulthood. Raising public awareness about the importance of physical literacy can contribute to the enhancement of educational programs and public health policies. Schools, sports clubs, and public spaces play a crucial role in creating movement opportunities for citizens and can strengthen their motor skills and motivation for physical activity through targeted programs. Additionally, cultural, economic, and environmental factors influence the extent of physical literacy development. For instance, communities with limited access to sports and recreational facilities often experience lower levels of physical participation. Moreover, the psychological effects of physical literacy should not be overlooked. Individuals with adequate motor skills generally experience a higher sense of self-efficacy, which positively affects their self-esteem and mental well-being. Conversely, insufficient motor abilities may lead to decreased motivation, feelings of inefficacy, and ultimately, avoidance of social and sports activities. This not only deteriorates physical health but also has negative social and psychological consequences. Therefore, examining the outcomes of physical literacy among citizens can provide valuable insights into improving quality of life and public health. Given the significance of this issue, identifying the challenges and opportunities related to the development of physical literacy and its impact on various aspects of life can offer effective strategies for increasing physical activity levels and enhancing social well-being. Hence, the aim of this study was to identify the outcomes of physical literacy among Iranian citizens.
Methods: This study follows an interpretive research paradigm with a qualitative approach, utilizing grounded theory as the research strategy and latent content analysis as the analytical technique. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 17 experienced experts, including university professors and specialists in the fields of physical literacy and health. A non-random, purposive sampling method was employed, and interviews continued until theoretical saturation was achieved regarding the research questions and objectives. The data obtained from the interviews were collected in both audio and textual formats and analyzed using MAXQDA 18 software. The researcher conducted open coding to extract concepts from the interviews, followed by axial coding to categorize the identified concepts into various themes. Finally, selective coding was used to develop a model comprising the consequences of physical literacy development.
Results: The findings of this study indicate that the outcomes of physical (motor) literacy encompass concepts including physical competence, motor competence, emotional competence, social competence, cognitive, communicative, and coping skills.
Conclusion: In addition to physical aspects, emotional-social competence is another important outcome of motor literacy that has a profound impact on individuals' psychological and social development. Through participation in physical and sports activities, individuals learn how to regulate their emotions, manage stress, and maintain calm in difficult situations. Group sports activities can also enhance a sense of cooperation, social interaction, adherence to rules, and acceptance of responsibility. In Iranian society, where social interactions play a key role in people's lives, fostering this competence can have a significant impact on improving mental health and increasing social resilience. Individuals with higher emotional-social competence typically establish stronger connections with others, have lower stress levels, and perform better in social and professional environments. Moreover, motor literacy helps individuals build a sense of success and self-confidence, which can enhance their sense of competence in other areas of life. Acquiring life skills is another positive outcome of developing motor literacy in individuals. Skills such as time management, planning, conscious decision-making, problem-solving, teamwork, and crisis management are among the abilities cultivated through physical and sports activities. These skills not only apply to sports but also to all aspects of life, helping individuals better cope with life's challenges. In a society like Iran, where rapid social and economic changes are occurring, equipping citizens with these skills can make them more resilient to problems and improve their quality of life. Given the importance of these outcomes, it is essential for policymakers, coaches, parents, and educational and cultural institutions to design and implement programs for developing motor literacy among citizens. Increasing public awareness of the benefits of motor literacy and its role in improving individual and social life can be an effective step toward promoting health and well-being. For example, incorporating motor literacy education programs in schools, encouraging children and adolescents to engage in physical activities, increasing access to appropriate spaces for sports and healthy recreation, and developing educational programs for parents and coaches can be effective in this regard. Additionally, implementing policies that encourage adults and seniors to engage in physical activities can contribute to improving public health in society. One effective approach in this regard is expanding sports programs in workplaces, parks, and cultural centers, which will increase physical activity levels and, consequently, improve the quality of life for all age groups.
Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Clinical Psychiatry
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