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Published on: March 7, 2019
A qualitative, longitudinal study exploring obese adolescents' attitudes toward physical activity
Anders Lindelof1, Claus Vinther Nielsen, Birthe D Pedersen
1Department of Clinical Social Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Midtjylland, Denmark.
Journal of Physical Activity & Health
|January 18, 2013
Summary
Obese adolescents often become more sedentary and dislike physical activity, hindering weight loss. Developing a positive attitude towards exercise through enjoyable experiences is crucial for them to become more active.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Health
- Behavioral Science
- Obesity Research
Background:
- Individual attitudes towards physical activity influence participation.
- Obese adolescents' attitudes towards physical activity were explored longitudinally.
Purpose of the Study:
- To qualitatively and longitudinally explore obese adolescents' attitudes towards physical activity.
- To understand factors contributing to sedentary behavior in obese adolescents.
Main Methods:
- Fifteen obese adolescents were followed for 2.5 years.
- Data collection involved yearly participant observations and interviews.
- A phenomenological-hermeneutic approach was used for data analysis.
Main Results:
- Participants increasingly de-selected physical activities, becoming more sedentary.
- Participants viewed less intense activities as futile for weight loss.
- Genuine antipathy towards physical activity and failure to engage in strenuous exercise were observed.
Conclusions:
- Limited pleasure in physical activity contributes to sedentary lifestyles in obese adolescents.
- A positive attitude towards physical activity is essential for increased activity levels.
- Experiencing joy and meaning in physical activity may foster a positive attitude, aligning with Bourdieu's theory of practice.
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