EXPLORING THE ROLE OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AS A MODERATOR BETWEEN SELF-ESTEEM, SOCIAL SUPPORT, AND LIFE MEANING AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN EPIDEMIC CONDITIONS

Abstract

Objective: This study investigates how physical activity moderates the relationship between self-esteem, perceived social support, and meaning in life among university students during an epidemic. Methods: We surveyed 713 university students using the Meaning in Life Questionnaire, the Self-Esteem Scale, and the Perceived Social Support Scale. A total of 704 valid questionnaires were collected. Additionally, participants reported their levels of physical activity to assess its moderating role. Results: Perceived social support was significantly negatively correlated with self-esteem (r = -0.30, p < 0.01) but positively correlated with meaning in life (r = 0.52, p < 0.01). Self-esteem was negatively correlated with meaning in life (r = -0.23, p < 0.01). In students with low self-esteem, perceived social support negatively predicted meaning in life (coefficient = -0.38, t = 10.19, p < 0.001). Conversely, in students with high self-esteem, perceived social support positively influenced meaning in life (coefficient = 0.32, t = 14.16, p < 0.001). Importantly, higher levels of physical activity were associated with stronger positive effects of social support on meaning in life, regardless of self-esteem levels. Conclusion: Self-esteem moderates the relationship between perceived social support and meaning in life among university students. Physical activity enhances this moderating effect, suggesting that regular engagement in physical activities could strengthen psychological resilience and improve life satisfaction during challenging times such as epidemics.