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Parental socialization of child and adolescent physical activity: a meta-analysis

John Pugliese1, Barbara Tinsley

  • 1Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-1104, USA. john.pugliese@asu.edu

Journal of Family Psychology : JFP : Journal of the Division of Family Psychology of the American Psychological Association (Division 43)
|September 19, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Parental support and modeling positively influence child and adolescent physical activity (PA). This meta-analysis highlights the importance of parental socialization in promoting active lifestyles for children and adolescents.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Public Health
  • Developmental Psychology

Background:

  • Child and adolescent physical activity (PA) is crucial for health.
  • Parental socialization behaviors are potential influences on children's PA.
  • Existing research on this relationship needs systematic integration.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To synthesize findings on the association between parental socialization behavior and child/adolescent PA.
  • To identify moderating factors influencing this relationship.
  • To inform interventions for childhood obesity prevention.

Main Methods:

  • A meta-analysis was conducted, integrating data from 30 studies published between 1960 and 2005.
  • Studies included participants aged 2-18 years with available statistical data on parent socialization and child PA.
  • Effect sizes (r) were calculated to quantify the relationship.

Main Results:

  • A moderate positive relationship (mean r = .17, median r = .13) was found between parental support/modeling and child/adolescent PA.
  • The type of parental socialization behavior, population characteristics, and study methodologies were investigated for moderating effects.
  • Parental influence on physical activity levels is significant.

Conclusions:

  • Parental socialization plays a moderate role in promoting physical activity in children and adolescents.
  • Future research should explore mediated models and employ longitudinal designs to establish causality.
  • Findings support the development of targeted parental interventions for childhood obesity prevention programs.

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