OBJECTIVE: Guided by cognitive theory, this study tested an explanatory model for adolescents' beliefs, feelings, and healthy lifestyle behaviors and sex differences in these relationships. METHODS: Structural equation modeling evaluated cross-sectional data from a healthy lifestyle program from 779 adolescents 14 through 17 years old. RESULTS: Theoretical relationships among thoughts, feelings, and behaviors were confirmed and sex differences identified. Thoughts had a direct effect on feelings and an indirect effect through feelings on healthy behaviors for both sexes. A direct effect from thoughts to behaviors existed for males only. DISCUSSION: Findings provide strong support for the thinking-feeling-behaving triangle for adolescents. To promote healthy lifestyle behaviors in adolescents, interventions should incorporate cognitive behavioral skills-building activities, strengthening healthy lifestyle beliefs, and enhancing positive health behaviors.
OBJECTIVE: Guided by cognitive theory, this study tested an explanatory model for adolescents' beliefs, feelings, and healthy lifestyle behaviors and sex differences in these relationships. METHODS: Structural equation modeling evaluated cross-sectional data from a healthy lifestyle program from 779 adolescents 14 through 17 years old. RESULTS: Theoretical relationships among thoughts, feelings, and behaviors were confirmed and sex differences identified. Thoughts had a direct effect on feelings and an indirect effect through feelings on healthy behaviors for both sexes. A direct effect from thoughts to behaviors existed for males only. DISCUSSION: Findings provide strong support for the thinking-feeling-behaving triangle for adolescents. To promote healthy lifestyle behaviors in adolescents, interventions should incorporate cognitive behavioral skills-building activities, strengthening healthy lifestyle beliefs, and enhancing positive health behaviors.
Authors: Ruth Perou; Rebecca H Bitsko; Stephen J Blumberg; Patricia Pastor; Reem M Ghandour; Joseph C Gfroerer; Sarra L Hedden; Alex E Crosby; Susanna N Visser; Laura A Schieve; Sharyn E Parks; Jeffery E Hall; Debra Brody; Catherine M Simile; William W Thompson; Jon Baio; Shelli Avenevoli; Michael D Kogan; Larke N Huang Journal: MMWR Suppl Date: 2013-05-17
Authors: Daniel Le Grange; James Lock; W Stewart Agras; Susan W Bryson; Booil Jo Journal: J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry Date: 2015-09-02 Impact factor: 8.829