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Patterns of noncompliance in adolescent field-based accelerometer research
Sarahjane Belton1, Wesley O'Brien, Eric E Wickel
1School of Health and Human Performance, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland.
Journal of Physical Activity & Health
|December 11, 2012
Summary
SMS reminders effectively boost adolescent accelerometer wear time, particularly in the morning. Targeting after-school hours is crucial for improving compliance in future studies.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Health
- Wearable Technology
- Physical Activity Monitoring
Background:
- Investigating noncompliance patterns in adolescent field studies using accelerometers.
- Examining the impact of a cost-effective SMS reminder strategy on adolescent compliance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify when adolescents are most likely to remove their activity monitors.
- To assess the effectiveness of SMS reminders in improving monitor wear time.
Main Methods:
- 117 second-level students (mean age 12.41 years) from rural Ireland participated.
- Actigraph accelerometer data were collected over 7 days to assess compliance.
- A cost-efficient SMS reminder strategy was implemented and evaluated.
Main Results:
- Adolescents were most likely to remove monitors in the evening.
- Monitors removed after school were worn for significantly longer periods.
- SMS message recipients showed significantly higher morning monitor wear (P = .008).
Conclusions:
- Morning SMS reminders are effective in increasing adolescent monitor wear.
- The after-school period presents a key opportunity for improving compliance.
- Future research should focus on interventions during the after-school period.
