The relationship between physical activity and general self-efficacy: a three-way interaction model

Abstract General self-efficacy is crucial for university students who are about to enter the workplace and society. However, the association between physical activity, a widely recognized and convenient way to promote various psychological qualities, and general self-efficacy or other aspects of self-efficacy is often overlooked. Through psychological measurements of 480 university students, this study found that social comparison orientation and perceived social support jointly moderate the impact of physical activity on general self-efficacy among university students. Specifically, under conditions of high social comparison orientation and high levels of perceived social support, physical activity has a significant predictive effect on individuals' general self-efficacy. These findings suggest that universities and social institutions should pay attention to the importance of physical activity for university students' general self-efficacy. By encouraging their participation in physical activity and providing appropriate social support, they can help them establish positive self-evaluation and confidence to better cope with future challenges and difficulties.