Support Helps Inactive Youth Be More Active
Author Information
Author(s): Kirsten Krahnstoever Davison, Dorothy L Schmalz
Primary Institution: University at Albany (SUNY)
Hypothesis
Do adolescents at high risk of physical inactivity benefit more from activity-related support than those at low risk?
Conclusion
Activity-related support from family and friends may effectively promote physical activity among youth at risk of physical inactivity.
Supporting Evidence
- Adolescents at high risk reported lower levels of physical activity than those at low risk.
- Support from mothers, fathers, siblings, and peers was linked to higher physical activity levels.
- High risk youth showed a stronger association between activity support and physical activity.
Takeaway
Kids who might not be very active can get better at being active if their family and friends help them out.
Methodology
The study involved 202 middle school students who completed self-report questionnaires on physical activity and activity-related support.
Potential Biases
The reliance on self-report measures may introduce bias in the assessment of physical activity.
Limitations
The study's cross-sectional design limits the ability to determine causation, and the sample lacked ethnic and racial diversity.
Participant Demographics
Participants were predominantly non-Hispanic white, with 45% of girls and 41% of boys classified as overweight.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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