The project “Individual and Contextual Factors Contributing to the Development of Mental and Physical Health” focuses on investigating factors that influence the mental and physical health of primary school–aged children, with a particular emphasis on children with chronic illnesses, especially type 1 diabetes. The project examines the effects of psychotherapy, motivation for physical activity, and the interrelationships between physical activity, mental health, and quality of life. A multidisciplinary approach is employed, including the development of new measurement instruments, such as a tensiometric platform for the early detection of neuropathy, as well as the use of smart technologies (smartwatches, Freestyle Libre). The results will be disseminated through scientific publications, conferences, science festivals, and collaboration with educational and healthcare institutions.
The overall objective of the project is to examine the interrelationships between psychological interventions, lifestyle factors, and physical activity in the promotion, maintenance, and improvement of mental and physical health in children, with a particular focus on children living with type 1 diabetes.
To assess the impact of psychotherapeutic interventions on mental and physical health outcomes in children
To identify motivational determinants influencing children’s participation in physical activity
To evaluate the effects of physical activity and lifestyle-related factors on health outcomes and quality of life in children with type 1 diabetes
To develop, pilot, and validate measurement instruments for assessing mental health, physical activity levels, and quality of life in children
The project addresses current public health challenges, including children’s mental health, sedentary lifestyles, and chronic diseases. Its scientific relevance is reflected in the development of novel measurement instruments, the integration of psychological, kinesiology-related, and biomedical indicators, as well as the application of objective health measures.
Publication of eight scientific papers in WoS/Scopus-indexed journals
Strengthening of the institution’s research capacity
Development of tools applicable in educational and healthcare settings
Enhanced collaboration with sports and healthcare organizations
Primary Schools of the City of Osijek
School Sports Association of Osijek-Baranja County
Sports Association of Osijek-Baranja County
Association of Young Diabetics Osijek
School Sports Association of the City of Osijek
Osijek Sports Community (ZOS)
Association of Kinesiologists of Osijek-Baranja County (UKOBŽ)
Ljiljana Šapić, Filip Petković, Patrik Petrov, Martina Tot Vesić
Preparation and organization of the research
Implementation of psychological and physical interventions
Data analysis and evaluation
Dissemination and communication of results
Project management and involvement of early-career researchers