The present study examines the relationship between physical activity and depressive symptoms among adolescents. Previous research has highlighted the importance of physical activity to overall well being. Some studies suggest that when adolescents increased levels of physical activity, they decreased symptoms of depression. The current study’s research questions: To what extent does participation in physical activity relate to symptoms of depression? Does participation in physical activity differ between adolescent males and females in grades 9-12? I think that I don’t have the data to answer this question Do symptoms of depression differ between genders? To what extent does Hispanic or Latino origin relate to symptoms of depression?

Methods: In order to expand knowledge of the relationship between the two variables, data were collected from the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). The survey is an epidemiological surveillance system that employs three-stage cluster sample design to produce a representative sample of 9th through 12th grade students from all 50 states. Several responses provide information on gender, ethnicity, physical activity, as well as symptoms of depression.

Results: High percentages of depressed youth were found between the ages of 15-17 years. Results indicate that symptoms of depression differ between males and females, 9.9% of males displayed depressive symptoms and 16.1 were female. Of the adolescents in the United States 6% of the students displaying symptoms of depression indicated that they were of Hispanic/Latino origin; 20% were depressed and were of other ethnicity. Twelve percent of adolescents were depressed and indicated that they do not take physical education at school. Seven percent of the adolescents were depressed and indicated that they do not partake in physical activity.

Conclusion: Findings indicate a relationship between physical activity and depression in adolescents.