A multidimensional assessment of pre-adolescent lifestyle: A mixed methods study

Collaborative research into the different aspects of a child’s lifestyle to address concerns of obesity and sedentary behavior is not conclusive. It is imperative to address major influences for lifestyle behaviors such as physical activity (PA), nutrition intake (NI), weight status, and knowledge and attitudes towards leading a healthier lifestyle in order to create successful interventions. This study assessed the above factors in a mixed-methods approach using a 3-day time frame to assess PA, NI, weight status, and qualitative interview to assess knowledge and attitudes of these factors. A sample (n=30) of fifth grade children were given accelerometers, PA and food diaries to self report their lifestyle habits, alongside having weight, height and waist circumference taken for weight status. Data were analyzed using Pearson product moment correlations and linear regression to assess relationships and potential causality. Results showed mixed findings to reflect the divergent evidence base between those who have high daily PA and those who meet recommendations for diet. Correlations between PA and nutrition variables revealed insignificant findings; however BMI, energy intake (EI) and waist to height ratio (WHTR) were significantly related. Findings stress the need for interventions impacting children at different levels, yet more research is warranted.

Name thesis:degree_name

M.S.

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Kinesiology

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2014

Author dc:creator

• McLoughlin, Gabriella

Contributors dc:contributor

• Graber, Kim C.

• Lifestyle
• Nutrition
• Physical activity

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 2013 Gabriella McLoughlin

Language dc:language

en

Handle dc:identifier

http://hdl.handle.net/2142/46868

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/46868