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Objectively measured physical activity and psychosocial functioning in young children: The GECKO Drenthe cohort

Esther Hartman1, Dorien Ketelaar1,2, Congchao Lu2,3

  • 1a Center of Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen , Groningen , The Netherlands.

Journal of Sports Sciences
|June 4, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Higher physical activity (PA) in young children is linked to more parent-reported hyperactivity and behavioral issues, particularly in boys. Sedentary time showed a reverse association, suggesting PA may indicate psychosocial challenges.

Area of Science:

  • Child Psychology
  • Pediatric Health
  • Behavioral Science

Background:

  • Global trends show increasing inactivity in children.
  • Inactivity may correlate with psychosocial problems.
  • Understanding this link is crucial for early intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine the association between objectively measured physical activity (PA) levels and psychosocial functioning in young children.
  • To investigate gender-specific differences in this relationship.

Main Methods:

  • Cross-sectional study of 898 children (3.4-7.3 years) from the Dutch GECKO birth cohort.
  • Objective PA assessment using accelerometry (ActiGraph GT3X) for at least three days.
  • Linear regression analysis with parent-reported Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, controlling for covariates.

Main Results:

  • Higher total and moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) associated with higher Total Difficulty scores.
  • Increased sedentary time linked to lower Total Difficulty scores.
  • MVPA associated with hyperactivity/inattention in both genders; sedentary time showed a reverse association in boys. MVPA and less sedentary time predicted behavioral problems in boys.

Conclusions:

  • Parent reports indicate more hyperactivity/inattention and behavioral problems in more active children, and fewer in sedentary children, especially boys.
  • High levels of objectively measured physical activity may signal underlying psychosocial problems in young children.
  • Findings highlight the complex interplay between physical activity and psychosocial well-being in early childhood.

Keywords:
Motor activityaccelerometrychildmental healthpreschoolquestionnaires

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