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

McLoughlin, Gabriella

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Description

Title

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

Author(s)

McLoughlin, Gabriella

Issue Date

2014-01-16T18:19:11Z

Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)

Graber, Kim C.

Department of Study

Kinesiology & Community Health

Discipline

Kinesiology

Degree Granting Institution

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Degree Name

M.S.

Degree Level

Thesis

Keyword(s)

• Lifestyle
• Nutrition
• Physical activity

Abstract

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.

Graduation Semester

2013-12

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Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2013 Gabriella McLoughlin

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