Bridging Mobile App-Supported Physical Activity, Learning-Related Outcomes and Bullying/Cyberbullying in Youth: A Systematic Review of Three Intersecting Evidence Streams

This systematic review examined three complementary lines of intervention evidence in children and adolescents aged 6–18 years: (1) mobile app-supported physical activity (PA) interventions and learning-relevant cognitive, motivational, and psychosocial outcomes; (2) PA/physical education (PE) interventions and bullying/cyberbullying outcomes; and (3) mobile app-based interventions and bullying/cyberbullying outcomes. Twenty-two intervention studies identified across four databases between September 2016 and September 2026 were included. The results were organized into two main domains: bullying/cyberbullying and learning-relevant cognitive, motivational, and psychosocial outcomes. These outcomes were examined across emotional–motivational, sociobehavioral, and cognitive dimensions. In the emotional–motivational dimension, favorable outcomes were observed in self-efficacy, motivation, and emotional well-being, although effects varied across studies. In the sociobehavioral dimension, benefits were identified in prosocial behavior, social relationships, and peer support. Some studies also reported improvements in attention, concentration, and other cognitive functions related to learning. Regarding bullying/cyberbullying, an evidence gap was identified. No identified study evaluated the effects of mobile app-based PA interventions on bullying/cyberbullying-related outcomes. Interventions were also classified according to whether mobile applications were used independently or in combination with wearable devices or other digital technologies. Overall, the findings suggest that mobile applications may extend the benefits of PA beyond physical outcomes and promote learning-relevant cognitive, motivational, and psychosocial outcomes. Finally, the main evidence gaps were identified to guide the design of future interventions targeting children and adolescents.