Enjoyment in Sport and Alcohol Use among Adolescents: Examining the Mediating Role of Engagement

Alcohol consumption among young people is a significant public health concern. Previous studies have indicated that participation in sports, through the positive experiences it offers, may function as a protective factor against alcohol intake. This study aimed to examine the influence of enjoyment and personal fulfillment on adolescent alcohol use, exploring the role of engagement with sports as a mediating variable. A total of 370 adolescents (mean age = 15.08; = 1.48) participated in the study and completed the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test, the Enjoyment in Sports Scale, and the Athlete Engagement Questionnaire. The results demonstrated that enjoyment is related to lower alcohol consumption through personal fulfillment and engagement in sporting activity. It is crucial to facilitate positive experiences in sport that promote engagement and generate a sense of personal fulfillment, as these factors may reduce the likelihood of risky alcohol consumption.