A Theoretical Framework for Integrating Mental Health Education into Physical Education Curricula in Nigerian Secondary Schools

Mental health education remains marginalised within Nigeria's secondary school physical education curriculum despite the well-documented psychological benefits of physical activity and the rising adolescent mental health burden. This dissertation develops a theoretical framework for integrating mental health education into physical education curricula in Nigerian secondary schools, making original contributions to both curriculum theory and physical health education scholarship. A systematic literature review synthesises global evidence on physical education-based mental health promotion, existing curriculum integration models, and the particular socio-cultural dynamics of Nigerian adolescent mental health. Drawing on ecological systems theory, self-determination theory, and the biopsychosocial model of health, an original integration framework is constructed, specifying four levels of integration: cognitive knowledge embedding, affective skill development, behavioural practice opportunities, and environmental climate modification. The framework is validated through an expert Delphi consensus process involving 25 physical education scholars, curriculum specialists, and adolescent mental health practitioners from across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones. Pilot implementation of the framework in eight secondary schools in Ogun and Kano States generates qualitative and preliminary quantitative feasibility evidence. Findings support the theoretical coherence and practical adaptability of the framework across diverse socio-cultural contexts within Nigeria. The dissertation contributes an original theoretically grounded curriculum integration model with direct policy relevance for the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council's curriculum revision processes. Keywords: mental health education, physical education curriculum, theoretical framework, Nigerian secondary schools, curriculum integration