30 October 2023 , 13:00
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Better mental health (65%), physical health (46%), and improved social relationships (49%), are some of the top benefits that come from having a positive attitude – according to Scottish adults.
Scots are keen to dispel the stereotype that they are always gloomy, with two-thirds (65%) striving to give off a positive energy, in a bid to brighten the days of those around them.
The survey of 1,000 adults, from north of the English border, found that 92% believe it is crucial to set a good example for young children, by remaining positive in front of them.
And nearly a quarter of those polled (23%) even think that children are less likely to misbehave if their parents maintain a positive outlook.
However, 49% find it difficult to stay self-assured all of the time, with 17% even describing their attitude as negative. In tough times, exactly half rely on friends or family for support, while 45% turn to exercise to boost their mood – as nine in ten view a positive attitude as crucial to success in life.
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And while the Scottish weather might not always permit it, 85% believe exercising and playing sport positively impacts their day-to-day mood.
Nine in ten Scots see sports as a great way for children to develop their communication skills (Scottish Gas/Scottish FA)Scotland ’s sporting heritage shines through in respondents, as nine in ten view sport as a great way for children to develop their communication skills – with teamwork and respect featuring highly on the potential benefits of playing sport, as well as self-discipline and commitment.
And 86% also value the role of coaches or PE teachers in sport – with 82% of parents believing coaches have a vital influence in their child's development.
The research findings were released as Scottish Gas teamed up with the Scottish FA, to encourage positive energy amongst children at Scottish Gas Football Camps across the nation.
It has funded the provision of 33 camps across Scotland this October half-term, enabling children from all socio-economic backgrounds free access to football during the school holidays.
Young players who display positive energy traits – including respect, fair play, teamwork, and positive communication – have been rewarded with a string of amazing prizes, including tickets to Scottish Gas Scottish Cup fixtures across the 2023/24 season.
Former Scotland men’s team captain, Charlie Mulgrew, who took part in the energy company's holiday football camp coaching session at Drumchapel United FC, said: “Football has brought me a lot of happiness from an early age, and taught me some really valuable life skills beyond the pitch.
“It’s great that we’re working with coaches, who can be hugely influential on a child’s development, to encourage and reward kids for displaying positive traits at these holiday camps across Scotland.”
The study, carried out via OnePoll, also found eight in ten adults feel that if children witnessed someone being negative or rude to others, they would be likely to copy that behaviour.
As a result, 92%, of the 367 parents polled, say they would reward their little ones for playing nicely with other children, or showing support and respect for their peers.
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Chair of the Scottish Parliament’s Cross-Party Group on the Future of Football, Fulton MacGregor MSP, added: “As the convenor of the Scottish Cross Party Group on the Future of Football in Scotland, I am acutely aware of how beneficial sport can be for our youth, both physically and mentally.
“The initiative launched by Scottish Gas and the Scottish FA to reward our young players who exhibit respect, fair play, teamwork, and positive communication, is an excellent way to teach our future generations all the tenets of a positive attitude, both on and off the field.”