Which sociocultural benefit of physical activity can increase feelings of self-esteem and belonging?

• A. Social inclusion
• B. Stronger communities
• C. Decreased physical and mental illness
• D. Decreased health care costs

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is how participating in physical activity can support a person’s social connection and sense of value. Social inclusion happens when individuals feel welcomed, accepted, and treated as part of a group during activities. When students join in inclusive games, team tasks, and cooperative routines, they interact with peers, receive encouragement, and see themselves as valuable members of the group. That sense of acceptance and belonging boosts self-esteem because the person feels capable and connected to others.

This is why social inclusion best fits the goal of increasing feelings of self-esteem and belonging. Stronger communities is a broader outcome at the group or societal level and doesn’t target the individual's inner sense of self as directly. Decreased physical and mental illness refers to health outcomes rather than the social-emotional experience of belonging. Decreased health care costs is an economic outcome, not a sociocultural benefit.