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Do adolescent experiences help shape college students' physical activity beliefs and behaviors? A mixed methods study
Justin L Montney1, Halle N Brin1, Javier L Martinez1
1Department of Kinesiology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA.
Journal of American College Health : J of ACH
|April 10, 2025
Summary
College students' current physical activity is driven by enjoyment, self-efficacy, and friend support. However, positive adolescent experiences, especially social ones, may indirectly shape these attitudes toward physical activity.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Science
- Public Health
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- College students' physical activity (PA) is crucial for long-term health.
- Understanding factors influencing PA in this demographic is essential.
- Adolescent experiences may shape adult behaviors, but this link needs further exploration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine college students' current PA beliefs and behaviors.
- To assess the perceived influence of adolescent experiences on current PA habits.
- To identify key predictors of PA in college students.
Main Methods:
- Surveys and focus groups were used with 156 college students.
- Quantitative analyses (linear regression) examined associations between adolescent experiences, current perceptions, and PA.
- Qualitative thematic analyses explored participants' perceptions of PA influences.
Main Results:
- Current PA was significantly associated with enjoyment, self-efficacy, and friend support (R²=0.34, p<0.001).
- Adolescent experiences, particularly social interactions with friends, parental support, and community resources, showed lasting influences.
- Quantitative data indicated current factors were stronger predictors than past experiences.
Conclusions:
- Current self-efficacy, enjoyment, and social support are primary drivers of college students' PA.
- Positive adolescent experiences, especially social and familial support, can indirectly foster positive attitudes toward PA.
- Interventions could leverage current motivators while acknowledging the potential long-term impact of formative experiences.
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