The Impact of Physical Activity on Academic Burnout in Rural Left-Behind Children

October 23, 2025 - 16:56

Recent research has delved into the effects of physical activity on academic burnout specifically among rural left-behind children in China. This study involved a sample of 195 children who are often separated from their parents due to migration for work, leading to unique challenges in their educational and emotional well-being.

The findings indicate that increased physical activity significantly reduces feelings of academic burnout. Furthermore, the study highlights the mediating roles of loneliness and general self-efficacy in this relationship. Children who engage in regular physical activities tend to experience lower levels of loneliness, which in turn boosts their self-efficacy, ultimately leading to a decrease in burnout associated with academic pressures.

This research underscores the importance of promoting physical activity as a strategic intervention to support the mental health and academic performance of vulnerable populations, particularly those facing the challenges of being left behind in rural areas. By addressing loneliness and enhancing self-efficacy through physical engagement, there is potential for improving the educational experiences of these children.