The Future of Sport in Digital Natives: Psychological Well-being and Challenges for the Mobile–Game Generation
Keywords:
Digital natives, sport participation, psychological well-being, mobile gaming, sedentary behavior, qualitative research, TehranAbstract
This study aimed to explore the perspectives of digital natives on the future of sport, with a specific focus on psychological well-being and the challenges associated with mobile–game engagement. A qualitative research design was employed using semi-structured interviews with 23 participants from Tehran, selected through purposive sampling. Data collection continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. Interviews lasted 45–70 minutes, were audio-recorded with consent, and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was conducted using NVivo 14 software. Open, axial, and selective coding were applied to identify categories, subcategories, and concepts. Trustworthiness was enhanced through peer debriefing, reflexivity, and iterative coding. Four overarching themes were identified: psychological well-being, challenges of mobile–game engagement, future of sport participation, and coping strategies. Participants described gaming as both a stress-relieving and emotionally destabilizing activity, while also highlighting feelings of achievement, identity exploration, and social belonging. Major challenges included poor time management, family conflicts, health risks, and addiction tendencies. Future sport visions emphasized hybrid models integrating digital and physical activities, digital coaching, and educational gamification, but concerns about declining traditional sports were also expressed. Coping strategies involved parental mediation, peer influence, self-regulation, alternative activities, and awareness of risks. These findings indicate a dual role of mobile games, functioning as both barriers and gateways to sport participation and psychological resilience. The results demonstrate that while mobile gaming poses risks to psychological well-being and active lifestyles, digital natives also employ adaptive strategies to balance gaming with physical activity. Schools, families, and communities should adopt culturally tailored, hybrid interventions that integrate digital tools with traditional sport practices to enhance resilience and long-term well-being.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Mahdi Najafian Razavi, Armin Farokhi (Author); Maryam Sadeghi; Maedeh Ahmadpour (Author)
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