Effect of physical activity levels and physical self-concept in bullying and cyberbullying: A systematic review

Authors

  • Carlos David Gómez-Carmona Group for Training Optimization and Sports Performance, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain / Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Murcia, San Javier, Murcia, Spain.
  • Pedro José Reche Soto Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Murcia, San Javier, Murcia, Spain.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.6018/sportk.630881

Keywords:

School Harassment, Virtual Victimization, Physical Exercise, Body Image, Bibliographic Analysis

Abstract

The present paper conducted a systematic review to examine the scientific evidence on the effect of bullying and cyberbullying on physical activity practice and physical self-concept. Following the PRISMA methodology, 4 databases—PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and EBSCO—were consulted, obtaining a total of 157 studies. After the process, 20 studies involving 213,197 participants (46.4% males and 53.6% females) were included. The average prevalence was 21.9% for bullying and 13.7% for cyberbullying. Most studies found that increased physical activity practice, especially vigorous activity with high levels of enjoyment, reduced the likelihood of being a victim of bullying and cyberbullying. However, certain types of activities, such as football and athletics, showed a higher propensity for bullying behaviors. Regarding physical self-concept, being overweight, obese, or having a negative body perception was associated with increased victimization by bullying and cyberbullying. Regular physical activity can contribute to a positive physical self-concept and intrinsic motivation towards exercise. In conclusion, regular practice of physical activity, especially of vigorous intensity, appears to have a protective effect against bullying and cyberbullying, while a negative physical self-concept may increase the risk of victimization.

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Published

22-04-2026

How to Cite

Gómez-Carmona, C. D., & Reche Soto, P. J. (2026). Effect of physical activity levels and physical self-concept in bullying and cyberbullying: A systematic review. SPORT TK-EuroAmerican Journal of Sport Sciences, 15, 25. https://doi.org/10.6018/sportk.630881

Issue

Vol. 15 (2026)

Section

Articles

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