Impact of After-school Sports Programs on the Mental Health of Primary School Pupils in Asa Local Government Area of Kwara

Abstract

This study employed a quasi-experimental design to investigate the impact of after-school sports programs on the mental health of primary school pupils in Asa Local Government Area of Kwara State. The study randomly selected primary school pupils from four purposively selected schools, two of which were experimental groups that allowed after-school sports while the other two were control groups that did not allow it. The mental health of the pupils was assessed using observation and an observation guide was developed to measure anxiety, depression, and aggression. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including ANCOVA and t-test. The study found a significant effect of after-school sports programs on the mental health of primary school pupils. However, there was no significant difference in mental health based on school type. The study followed ethical principles of research such as informed consent, voluntary participation, confidentiality, and data privacy. Overall, the study provides useful insights into the impact of after-school sports programs on the mental health of primary school pupils, and the findings could inform policies and programs aimed at promoting the mental health of pupils in Nigeria.