| Abstract [eng] |
The aim of this study was to assess the impact of a physical exercise intervention on emotional and behavioral difficulties as well as executive functions in preschool children. The participants of this study were 99 children (43 boys and 56 girls) from one preschool institution. Thirty-four participants were assigned to a passive control group, 31 to an active control group, and 34 to the experimental group. Children’s emotional and behavioral difficulties were assessed using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (Goodman, 1997). Working memory was assessed with the Animal House task, inhibitory control with the Head and Feet task, and shifting and inhibition with the Shape School task. To assess demographic and additional variables, a Child’s Leisure Time, Development, and Social Environment Questionnaire was used. Statistical analysis revealed that physical activity intervention was associated with better performance of inhibitory tasks of older children, and children who attended more sports clubs experienced smaller changes in emotional symptoms compared to those who were less physically active. No other associations were found between physical activity intervention and executive functions or emotional difficulties. |
