Gender Differences in the Associations Between Physical Activity, Smartphone Use, and Weight Stigma

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Behavioral Science
• Sociology

Background:

• Physical activity (PA) is crucial for health, yet its determinants, especially in Chinese populations, remain under-researched.
• Factors like weight stigma, sedentary behaviors (smartphone, social media, online learning), outdoor activity, and nomophobia's influence on PA require investigation.
• The COVID-19 pandemic context adds a unique layer to understanding these associations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the associations between weight stigma, sedentary activities, outdoor activity, nomophobia, and physical activity (PA) among Chinese university students.
• To investigate gender-specific differences in these associations.
• To provide evidence for targeted health interventions.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional online survey was administered to 3,135 Chinese university students (1,798 females, 1,337 males) in late 2021.
• Validated scales measured weight stigma, PA, and nomophobia; self-designed items assessed time spent on various activities.
• Parallel mediation models were employed using SPSS to analyze the relationships.

Main Results:

• For females, weight-related self-stigma, social media use, and nomophobia were negatively associated with PA, while outdoor activity and online learning were positively associated.
• For males, perceived weight stigma and online learning were negatively associated with PA, whereas outdoor activity showed a positive association.
• Significant gender differences were observed in the factors influencing physical activity.

Conclusions:

• Weight stigma and nomophobia negatively affect physical activity levels in Chinese university students.
• Promoting outdoor activities and addressing weight stigma are key for enhancing PA.
• Gender-specific strategies are necessary for effective public health interventions targeting physical activity.