Physical exercise and social anxiety among college students: A chain mediation model

This study explored the effect of physical exercise on social anxiety among college students and the chain mediating role of body image and self-esteem in this relationship. Participants comprised 550 undergraduate and graduate students who completed online surveys. Results were as follows: (a) physical exercise was significantly correlated with social anxiety, body image, and self-esteem among college students; (b) social anxiety among college students was significantly and negatively correlated with body image and self-esteem; (c) physical exercise among college students had a negative predictive effect on social anxiety; and (d) body image and self-esteem played both independent and chain mediating roles in the effect of physical exercise on social anxiety. The results showed that physical exercise could predict social anxiety through the mediating effects of body image and self-esteem as well as the chain mediating effect of the two. These findings provide solutions and practical guidance for mitigating the effects of social anxiety on college students.