Rural Appalachian Adolescent Self-Efficacy Expectations, BMI and Physical Activity

Main Article Content

Rebecca L. Elkins

Keywords

Appalachia, Obesity, Youth

Abstract




Introduction: Adolescents residing in the Appalachian region are at heightened risk for low levels of physical activity (PA) and high levels of morbidity and mortality. Understanding factors related to physical activity in this population will better inform prevention and risk reduction efforts. This study sought to explore relationships between self-efficacy expectations (SEE) to overcome barriers, body mass index (BMI) and different intensities of physical activity.
Methods: The relationship between self-efficacy expectation (SEE) to overcome barriers, body mass index (BMI), and days of moderate (MPA) and vigorous physical activity (VPA) were explored utilizing valid and reliable self-report instruments for 422, 12th grade, rural, male and female students from 11 different schools in an Appalachian region. The researcher conducted preliminary analyses and linear regressions to determine variables related to MPA and VPA.
Results: Results of a regression analysis for MPA indicated the model predicted 11.5% of the variance in days of MPA. Results of the second regression analysis for VPA indicated the model predicted 6.8% of the variance in days of VPA. Self-efficacy expectations to overcome barriers to physical activity were positively related to days engaging in MPA and VPA. BMI was not a significant predictor in either model. Conclusions: Higher levels of SEE to overcome barriers to physical activity were related to higher rates of moderate and vigorous physical activity among rural, Appalachian adolescents. Increasing levels of SEE may promote increased physical activity levels for these youths. BMI was not related to physical activity behaviors. Findings from this study may provide hope for prevention and intervention efforts targeting obese populations. Additional research to identify factors related to PA in underserved populations, such as Appalachia, may promote more effective programming.




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