Assessing Hair Concerns and Physical Activity Measures Among African American Women: a Mixed-Method Exploratory Study

Area of Science:

• Sociology
• Public Health
• Kinesiology

Background:

• Research on hair concerns and physical activity (PA) among African American (AA) women is limited.
• Demographic factors like age and income may influence hair concerns.
• Understanding these associations is crucial for developing targeted health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess demographic differences in hair concerns among AA women.
• To examine the associations between hair concerns and PA constructs.
• To explore AA women's perspectives on hair and PA engagement.

Main Methods:

• Quantitative survey assessing demographics, hair type and hairstyle management (HTHM), decisional balance, perceived benefits/barriers, and PA levels.
• Qualitative interviews exploring views on hair and PA.
• Statistical analyses including chi-square and ANOVA; content analysis for qualitative data.

Main Results:

• Haircare costs showed associations with perceived pros and altering behavior due to hair concerns.
• Exercisers spent fewer minutes on hair care compared to non-exercisers.
• Few participants identified hair concerns as a significant barrier to PA; suggested strategies included protective hairstyles like braids.

Conclusions:

• Hair concerns may not be a primary barrier to PA for AA women.
• Intervention approaches should consider culturally relevant strategies for PA engagement.
• Further research can inform culturally sensitive PA programs for this demographic.