Date on Honors Thesis

Fall 12-12-2025

Major

Psychology

Minor

Sports Communication

Examining Committee Member

Dr. Jana Hackathorn, Advisor

Examining Committee Member

Dr. Daniel Wann, Committee Member

Examining Committee Member

Dr. Megan St. Peters, Committee Member

Abstract/Description

This study looked to collectively investigate the relationships of both fitness/sexual activity attitudes with a need for social approval, while also determining if biological sex could play a role in either of these relationships. Additionally, loneliness and mental well-being were examined with the aforementioned variables. Predominantly white (82.5%) females (75%) data were analyzed after completing an online survey (N = 40). Significant relationships were found between fitness attitudes and a need for social approval in women only (r (28) = -.50, p = .005) and between sexual activity attitudes and a need for social approval in men only (r (8) = -.70, p = .025). Both fitness and sexual activity attitudes were found to be significantly positively correlated with mental well-being as predicted, but only fitness attitudes were found to be significantly negatively correlated with loneliness. Surprisingly, no significant relationship was found between loneliness and need for social approval. The findings of this study could help the understanding of what areas of life social approval needs impact and how those needs might affect males versus females differently. Further research is crucial to help not only understand how college students are impacted by the views of others, but also why the impact is there.

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