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Study finds that physically fit kids are more popular
The Gazette (Montreal) (Tue 06 Nov 2007 Byline: CHRIS ZDEB
Source: CanWest News Service) reports on a University of Alberta study, published in the Journal of Sport Behaviour, that found a connection between athletic skill and social acceptance among elementary school children. Youngsters deemed to be unskilled by their peers often experienced loneliness and social rejection, says lead researcher Janice Causgrove Dunn, associate dean of physical education. Like Peanuts comic strip character Charlie Brown, who couldn't kick a football, fly a kite or lead a baseball team, they were ridiculed and picked last for teams. On the other hand, kids seen as athletic by their classmates are better liked and less likely to feel lonely. In young adults, loneliness has been linked to behaviours including smoking, marijuana use and alcoholism and an increased risk for depression and dropping out of school.
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