Friendship Network Characteristics Are Associated with Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior in Early Adolescence.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

There is limited understanding of the association between peer social networks and physical activity (PA), sedentary and screen-related behaviors. This study reports on associations between personal network characteristics and these important health behaviors for early adolescents.

Methods

Participants were 310 students, aged 11-13 years, from fifteen randomly selected Victorian primary schools (43% response rate). PA and sedentary behaviors were collected via accelerometer and self-report questionnaire, and anthropometric measures via trained researchers. Participants nominated up to fifteen friends, and described the frequency of interaction and perceived activity intensity of these friends. Personal network predictors were examined using regression modelling

SUBMITTER: Marks J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4692398 | biostudies-literature | 2015

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature