Models of Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior

<p>This dissertation tested conceptual frameworks for models of physical activity and sedentary behavior based upon social cognitive theory and ecological models. The sample consisted of 527 7th and 8th graders from 3 rural schools in upstate New York. Structural equation modeling demonstrated that there were direct influences of environmental support, intrapersonal factors, parental modeling for physical activity, and physical health to levels of adolescent physical activity. Sedentary behavior was influenced by parental modeling for sedentary behavior and parental encouragement for sedentary behavior. In addition, using a mediating conceptual framework, intrapersonal factors mediated the relationships of environmental support, encouragement, mental health, and physical health to levels of physical activity. Studying physical activity and sedentary behavior should continue to use guided, theory-based approaches with sound statistical designs. This research supported the conceptualization that physical activity and sedentary behavior are not opposite ends of a spectrum, but are distinct behaviors with different factors of influence.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Child and Family Studies

Year

2012

Author dc:creator

• Canfield, Jodi

Contributors dc:contributor

• Ambika Krishnakumar
• Lutchmie Narine

• Adolescents
• Physical Activity
• Sedentary Behavior
• Structural Equation Modeling
• Family, Life Course, and Society

Repository record dc:identifier

https://surface.syr.edu/cfs_etd/63

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:surface.syr.edu:cfs_etd-1062