Optimising Psychological Well-Being in Chinese-Australian Adolescents: A 24-Hour Movement Guidelines Approach

Area of Science:

• Adolescent Health
• Public Health
• Psychology

Background:

• Chinese-Australian adolescents face unique challenges impacting lifestyle and well-being.
• Physical activity, screen time, and sleep are key determinants of adolescent well-being.
• Limited research exists on adherence to 24-Hour Movement Guidelines in this demographic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between adherence to 24-Hour Movement Guidelines and psychological well-being.
• To test the hypothesis that meeting guidelines for physical activity, screen time, and sleep positively impacts well-being.
• To identify specific guideline components most associated with improved psychological outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire assessed adherence to physical activity, screen time, and sleep guidelines in high school students.
• Multiple linear regression analysis examined associations between guideline adherence and psychological well-being.
• Guidelines defined as ≥60 min/day moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), ≤2 h/day recreational screen time, and 9-11 h/night sleep.

Main Results:

• Only 20.3% of 251 Chinese-Australian adolescents met two or three guidelines; 36.2% met none.
• Meeting physical activity (MVPA) or sleep guidelines was associated with better psychological well-being.
• Combined adherence to MVPA and sleep guidelines showed a significant positive association with higher well-being.

Conclusions:

• Greater adherence to physical activity and sleep guidelines is linked to enhanced psychological well-being.
• Public health strategies should promote exercise and sleep education at school and family levels.
• Targeted interventions are needed to improve guideline adherence and support adolescent mental health.