Motivation to be Sedentary and Weight Change in Children
Author Information
Author(s): Leonard H. Epstein, James N. Roemmich, Meghan D. Cavanaugh, Rocco A. Paluch
Primary Institution: University at Buffalo
Hypothesis
The motivation to be active or sedentary is correlated with weight change when children reduce their sedentary behavior.
Conclusion
The study found that the motivation to be sedentary limits the effects of reducing sedentary behavior on weight change in obese children.
Supporting Evidence
- Children who lost weight reduced their estimated daily energy intake by 223 kcal/day.
- Children who gained weight increased their estimated daily energy intake by 172 kcal/day.
- The average child had a reduction in targeted sedentary behavior of 67.6%.
Takeaway
If kids want to be lazy, it can make it harder for them to lose weight, even if they watch less TV or play fewer video games.
Methodology
The study involved 56 overweight/obese children who participated in a nine-week intervention to reduce sedentary behavior, with measurements of motivation, weight, and physical activity.
Potential Biases
Potential overestimation of sedentary behavior due to the TV Allowance™ device.
Limitations
The study did not collect detailed self-reported information on all types of behaviors or substitutions for reduced sedentary behaviors.
Participant Demographics
Children aged 8-12 years, 48.2% male, 25% non-Caucasian.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.0006
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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