Gemma Stevens1, Andrew Jahoda2, Lynsay Matthews2, Catherine Hankey3, Craig Melville2, Heather Murray4, Fiona Mitchell1. 1. Department of Physical Activity for Health, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK. 2. Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK. 3. Human Nutrition, School of Medicine, Nursing and Dentistry, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK. 4. Robertson Centre for Biostatistics, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The prevalence of obesity is higher in those with intellectual disabilities than the general population. The aim of the study was to understand the determinants of physical activity and dietary patterns in this population during their final year of school. METHOD: Qualitative data were generated from 10 interviews with adolescents with mild-moderate intellectual disabilities. Data were analysed using deductive thematic analysis, employing Self-Determination Theory as a theoretical framework. RESULTS: Adolescents' environment and social interactions play a pivotal role in influencing physical activity and dietary patterns. Three themes emerged from the analysis: situatedness, motivation and wider environmental influences. CONCLUSIONS: School structure, high self-efficacy and social connectedness facilitate increased physical activity and healthier diet in adolescents with intellectual disabilities. Home life, low self-efficacy and a lack of social connectedness can serve as a barrier to PA and a healthy diet.
BACKGROUND: The prevalence of obesity is higher in those with intellectual disabilities than the general population. The aim of the study was to understand the determinants of physical activity and dietary patterns in this population during their final year of school. METHOD: Qualitative data were generated from 10 interviews with adolescents with mild-moderate intellectual disabilities. Data were analysed using deductive thematic analysis, employing Self-Determination Theory as a theoretical framework. RESULTS: Adolescents' environment and social interactions play a pivotal role in influencing physical activity and dietary patterns. Three themes emerged from the analysis: situatedness, motivation and wider environmental influences. CONCLUSIONS: School structure, high self-efficacy and social connectedness facilitate increased physical activity and healthier diet in adolescents with intellectual disabilities. Home life, low self-efficacy and a lack of social connectedness can serve as a barrier to PA and a healthy diet.
Authors: Elise Rivera; Jenny Veitch; Venurs H Y Loh; Jo Salmon; Ester Cerin; Suzanne Mavoa; Karen Villanueva; Anna Timperio Journal: BMC Public Health Date: 2022-01-24 Impact factor: 3.295