Mediating Effects of Physical Activity on the Association Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Quality of Life in College Students
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Authors
Schmidt, Doria
Issue Date
2025
Type
Thesis
Language
en_US
Keywords
Exercise , Intervention , Mental Health
Alternative Title
Abstract
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are potentially traumatic events that occur duringchildhood and increase one’s likelihood to experience negative health outcomes. Physical
activity (PA) has been shown to buffer negative affects posed by ACEs on perceived quality of
life (QoL). This research examines how PA may mediate the association between ACEs and
poor QoL among college students. The relationship between ACEs and PA engagement is also
explored. By using self-report data, students’ perceived QoL, PA engagement, and exposure to
ACEs are quantified. Results show a positive association between ACEs and poor QoL (Direct
Effect = 16.2%, p = 0.023), PA does not significantly mediate this relationship. ACEs show a
negative relationship with PA (Direct Effect = 11.5%). Covariates like overweight status and
financial stress increases one’s propensity for ACEs (p = 0.008, p < 0.001). To improve the QoL
of college students with ACEs, interventions should focus on these factors.