The relationship between physical exercise and social-emotional competence in college students: the chain mediation of peer relationships and self-efficacy.

INTRODUCTION: College students face prominent emotional and interpersonal challenges under current social and academic pressures, and social-emotional competence is essential for their mental health and healthy development. This study investigates the relationship between physical exercise and social-emotional competence among college students, as well as the mediating roles of, peer relationships, and self-efficacy in this relationship. METHODS: A convenience sample of 517 college students from several universities in Liaoning Province was surveyed. Data were collected using the Physical Exercise Scale, Peer Relationship Scale, Self-Efficacy Scale, and Social-Emotional Competence Scale. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0, the PROCESS 3.4 plugin, and the Bootstrap method to test the chained mediation effects of peer relationships and self-efficacy. RESULTS: (1) Physical exercise, peer relationships, and self-efficacy were all positively correlated with college students' social-emotional competence. (2) Physical exercise was positively correlated with college students' peer relationships, self-efficacy, and social-emotional competence; peer relationships were positively correlated with self-efficacy and social-emotional competence; and self-efficacy was positively correlated with social-emotional competence. DISCUSSION: This research constructs a chained mediation model, systematically clarifying the relationship between physical exercise and social-emotional competence among college students, as well as the mediating roles of, peer relationships, and self-efficacy in this relationship. The research outcomes offer solid theoretical references and feasible practical enlightenment for carrying out college mental health education and optimizing students' social-emotional ability training programs.