Abstract :
Adolescent physical inactivity is a public health problem and has been shown to be associated with a number of negative psychosocial outcomes, including low self-esteem, behavioral dysfunction, and poor educational performance. In this research, the psychological effects of a school-based structured intervention on adolescents' motivation to participate in physical activity were explored. Forty Pakistani adolescents (M age = 13.42 years, SD = 1.17) were recruited in a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) using pre-test/post test control group design with equal numbers in the intervention group (n = 20) and control group (n = 20). The Self-Concept Questionnaire (SCQ), Adolescent Behavior Checklist (ABC), Physical Activity Questionnaire for Adolescents (PAQ-A), Participation Motivation Questionnaire (PMQ), and academic performance indicators were used for outcome measures. The experimental group received a 5-week classroom-based structured program, while the control group did not receive it. Results at post-intervention showed significantly higher scores for academic motivation (M = 3.60, SD = 0.50) and self-concept (SCQ; M = 193.10, SD = 4.64) for participants compared to the controls, as well as higher scores for participation motivation (PMQ; M = 36.00, SD = 2.34) and physical activity levels (PAQ-A; M = 105.85, SD = 4.67). In addition, the ABC group (M = 10.15, SD = 4.24) showed significant decreases in behavioral problems, and no significant changes were seen across any measure for the control group. The results showed that the structured school-based interventions with psychological support are effective strategies for psychological well-being and active lifestyle of Pakistani youth.