In our society, where the pursuit of well-being is paramount, sports play a significant role in bolstering mental and emotional health. Beyond mere entertainment, sports provide a sense of binding, a feeling of belonging and unity among the people. Despite the widespread acknowledgment of the positive effects of sports-watching on well-being, there is limited supporting evidence in the literature [1].
A study conducted by Kinoshita et al., recently published in the journal “Sports Management Review”, reported the impact of sports-watching on the well-being across diverse populations using three innovative methodologies. They seek to uncover the broader contributions of watching sports to individual satisfaction, societal cohesion, and to understand the benefits of sports for overall welfare (see the study graphics) [2].
References: 1. Waseda University. “The joy of sports: How watching sports can boost well-being.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 15 April 2024. www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/04/240415110530.htm 2. Kinoshita K, Nakagawa K, Sato S. Watching sport enhances well-being: Evidence from a multi-method approach. Sport Management Review. 2024 Mar 22. DOI:10.1080/14413523.2024.2329831