The Pathway Relationship Between Physical Activity Levels and Depressive Symptoms in University Students Mediated by Cognitive Flexibility

Objective: To explore the mediating pathway of cognitive flexibility in the relationship between physical activity and depressive symptoms among university students. Methods: A cross-sectional design was used to survey 2537 university students using the Physical Activity Rating Scale-3, Patients' Health Questionnaire, and Cognitive Flexibility Inventory. Data analysis was conducted using independent samples t-test, chi-square test, correlation analysis, one-way ANOVA, and mediation analysis. Results: A statistically significant negative correlation exists between the intensity of physical activity and depression symptom scores (r = -0.104, p < 0.01). The intensity of physical activity demonstrates a statistically significant positive correlation with controllability (r = 0.109, p < 0.01). A marked negative correlation is observed between depressive symptoms and controllability scores (r = -0.367, p < 0.01). The total effect of physical activity intensity on depressive symptoms was quantified as -0.3542 (95% CI: -0.5439 to -0.1645). The direct effect was found to be -0.2199 (95% CI: -0.3981, -0.0417), while the mediating effect of controllability was calculated to be -0.1343 (95% CI: -0.2145 to -0.0630). Conclusion: Increased engagement in physical activity among university students is associated with a reduction in their depressive symptom scores. Controllability serves as a mediating factor in the relationship between physical activity and depressive symptoms among university students.