The Effects Of Physical Activity On Mental Health

Although it is largely known that physical activity can be used to positively increase the mental states of individuals who engage in regular exercise, “unfortunately, it is well documented that many adults are not active to an extent that they could benefit from the health promoting effect of physical activity” (Göhner, Dietsche, & Fuchs, 2015, p.1385). Regardless of those benefits society is quick to turn to medication to solve problems pertaining to mental health instead of adding physical activity to their routine. While “multiple studies indicate that physical activity improves mood and reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety” (Penedo & Dahn, 2005, p. 191), it is still a societal norm for individuals to turn to prescriptions to improve their mental state. Additionally, often times when discussing the positive effect physical activity has on mental health it is in relation to either depression or anxiety. Although some studies exist, what is currently lacking in literature are studies that specifically look at how individuals with schizophrenia perceive physical activity to influence their mood state. For that specific reason it would be interesting to conduct a study that investigates the perception females living with …show more content…
The main resemblances can be found within the ontology and axiology sections of the transformative paradigm. As previously mentioned, I believe that reality is fluid and has the ability to change as society is constantly evolving. This is depicted within the study, as it is understood that our views may influence the results. My personal axiology is perfectly articulated in the research project, as its goal is to change the way clinicians prescribe treatment for individuals with schizophrenia to include physical activity; and I believe it is important for the research we conduct to create change within society for the