From Activity to Adaptability: Systematic Review on Elevating Adolescent Resilience Through Physical Activity

Authors

Kaylee Cowdrey, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

First Advisor

Dr. Manda Williamson

Second Advisor

Dr. Jacquelyn Omelian

Date of this Version

5-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Citation

Cowdrey, K. 2025. From Activity to Adaptability: Systematic Review on Elevating Adolescent Resilience Through Physical Activity. Undergraduate Honors Thesis. University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Comments

Copyright Kaylee Cowdrey 2025

Abstract

The recent increase in mental health concerns among teens showcases the need for accessible solutions that help buffer against psychopathology and build resilience. This systematic literature review looks at various studies to see how physical activity can positively affect resilience in adolescents by enhancing their emotional regulation, self-efficacy, self-esteem, social connections, and brain function. Literature published since 2010 from databases, including APA PsycInfo, PubMed, and Google Scholar, was collected for this analysis. The results of the review found that as adolescents engage in physical activity, there is improvement in coping skills by enhancing emotional regulation, self-efficacy, self-esteem, and social connectedness and support networks. Each of these is a buffer to stress related to adversity. Neurobiological aspects show that physical activity positively affects crucial brain areas that manage stress and process emotions, further enhancing resilience in adolescents. This review emphasizes the need to implement exercise programs into school curricula, community efforts, and clinical practices, and it suggests that future long-term studies with standardized measures are essential to clarify causal relationships and enhance interventions.