Social Climate of Physical Training Classes of The Chinese Universities and the Undergraduate Students’ Mental Health, Physical Activities and Life Style

Abstract Background The social climate within educational settings has been recognized as a significant factor influencing students' psychological well-being, behaviors, and overall quality of life. In the context of Chinese universities, where physical training classes play a crucial role in the holistic development of undergraduate students, understanding the relationship between the social climate of these classes and students' mental health engagement in physical activities, and lifestyle choices becomes paramount. Objectives This study aims to investigate the correlation between the social climate of physical training classes/ environment in Chinese universities and various aspects of undergraduate students' physical activities, healthy lifestyle, and mental health. Method 384 undergraduate students from …. University in China were selected through connivence sampling. The participants attempted mental health, healthy lifestyle, caring climate and physical activities scales. Pearson correlation was used for analyzing the data (p < 0.05). Results Results show that there is a significant negative correlation between the students’ perceived social climate and their mental health. However, the correlation between the social climate and the students’ physical activities, healthy lifestyle, and dimensions of lifestyle were significantly positive. Conclusion In conclusion, this study sheds light on the intricate relationship between the social climate of physical training classes within Chinese universities and the multifaceted dimensions of undergraduate students' well-being. Implications: The implications of these findings are noteworthy for educators, policymakers, and practitioners involved in the design and management of educational settings. The negative correlation observed between students' perceived social climate and mental health underscores the need for concerted efforts to create supportive and nurturing environments within physical training classes. Strategies aimed at fostering a sense of belonging, emotional safety, and positive social interactions could contribute to enhanced mental well-being among students.