Physical leisure participation and the well-being of adults with rheumatoid arthritis: the role of sense of belonging.

Participation in physical leisure activities was tested as a coping resource among adults with rheumatoid arthritis. Drawing on sociological theory of social integration, sense of belonging was tested as a potential mediator to help explain any significant association found between physical leisure activity and well-being among a population-based sample of adults with rheumatoid arthritis. Greater frequency of physical leisure participation was associated with higher ratings of mental health and physical health, and these associations were partially explained by sense of belonging. Results highlight the potential role of sense of belonging as a component in how activity participation can enhance the well-being of adults coping with disability.