New insights in submucous fibrosis: Nicotine dependence and nutritional assessment.

Prisons are highly regulated institutional environments in which surveillance and control substantially restrict individuals’ autonomy and capacity for self-determination, with significant implications for identity formation and emotional wellbeing (; ). The architectural design, organisational structures and normative frameworks governing daily life shape patterns of social interaction and influence perceptions of dignity, fairness and interpersonal respect (; ). Emerging evidence indicates that both structural conditions and social dynamics within correctional institutions significantly shape opportunities for wellbeing and human development (; ). In response, several penal systems have progressively moved away from compliance-oriented and punitive models towards approaches grounded in rehabilitation, personal growth and social resilience (; ), positioning mental health promotion as a strategic priority (). Positive mental health extends beyond the absence of psychopathology and encompasses psychological and social flourishing, including positive affect, a sense of meaning and constructive interpersonal relationships (; ). Nonetheless, people living in prison consistently report elevated levels of anxiety, depressive symptomatology and physical decline compared with the general population, particularly where access to purposeful activity is restricted (; ). Within this context, structured physical activity and sport initiatives have demonstrated potential not only to enhance physical and emotional health, but also to strengthen social connectedness, self-worth and motivation for behavioural change (; ; ; ). Self-determination theory () offers a robust explanatory framework for understanding the psychological benefits of sport participation. When social environments support the basic psychological needs for autonomy, competence and relatedness, individuals are more likely to experience self-determined forms of motivation associated with sustained engagement and enhanced wellbeing. Within correctional settings, well-structured sport programmes may provide opportunities for mastery, emotional regulation and collective belonging that satisfy these needs (; ). In parallel, social capital theory (; ; ) suggests that such initiatives may reinforce cooperative norms, mutual trust and shared responsibility, thereby contributing to a more constructive social climate within the institution. Likewise, social identity theory () proposes that shared group membership can strengthen feelings of belonging and positive self-concept, providing an additional framework for understanding the collective and relational dimensions of football participation in prison.