Gender-specific correlates of sufficient physical activity among vulnerable children

We aimed to identify the levels and types of physical activity (PA) by gender, and to determine correlates of sufficient PA on a theoretical basis of self-determination and social support; moreover, if significant correlates with sufficient PA would differ by gender among vulnerable children.

Participants were 319 children enrolled in public welfare systems in Seoul, South Korea. Sufficient PA was defined as daily activity with moderate or vigorous intensity for 60 min. Self-determined motivation was assessed by autonomous and controlled forms; social support was assessed as two types: family and peer support. Questionnaires were self-reported by children and their parents.

Of the participants, 20.4% achieved sufficient PA, specifically 15.0% for girls versus 27.3% for boys (P < .001). Girls were more likely to perform casual exercise types, while boys were more likely to perform sports types (P < .05 for all). The autonomous form of self-determined motivation, but not its controlled form, was significantly associated with sufficient PA in both girls (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.03, P = .028) and boys (AOR = 2.47, P = .007). Family support was not significantly associated in girls and boys; however, peer support was significantly associated only in boys (AOR = 3.72, P = .042).

Of the children, girls were less likely to achieve sufficient PA and to perform sports than were boys. Self-determined motivation was a PA correlate uniformly in girls and boys; however, peer support was a PA correlate only in boys. Self-determined motivation-enhanced strategies should be integrated with peer support provided through gender-specific strategies when employing a PA intervention for vulnerable children.