Does activity choice matter? The relation between activity choice and adolescent emotional wll-being

While involvement in activities generally enhances academic achievement and psychological health in adolescents, it can also have negative affects on certain groups of students. This study examines the relations between adolescents\u27 activity choices (math, English, sports, and music) and emotional well-being indicators (happiness, anxiety, depression, resilience, and self-esteem). Specifically, the different activities adolescents believe they are best at are explored in relation to self-reported well being. In addition, the self-concept of ability in all four activities was assessed at the beginning and end of a four-year period. High self-concept of ability in any of these domains appears to be a protective factor for emotional well-being, although the scope and degree of protection varies by activity