Developing a Holistic Model for Improving Adolescent Physical Activity Engagement

Thesis Abstract

Adolescent physical activity levels have been consistently declining worldwide, posing significant concerns for lifelong health outcomes and overall well-being. This study addresses the critical need for a comprehensive approach to understanding and enhancing physical activity engagement among adolescents by developing a holistic model that integrates psychological, social, environmental, and biological factors influencing youth exercise behaviors. The primary aim is to create a validated, multidimensional framework that guides effective interventions and policy formulations aimed at increasing physical activity participation among adolescents aged 12 to 18 years. Specific objectives include identifying key determinants affecting adolescent physical activity, examining the interactions among these determinants within the proposed model, and empirically testing the model's efficacy in predicting activity engagement levels. Employing a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design, the research first utilizes quantitative data collection through a structured questionnaire administered to a stratified sample of 600 adolescents selected from six secondary schools within the metropolitan region. The questionnaire incorporates validated scales measuring self-efficacy, motivation, social support, perceived environmental influences, and biological markers such as body mass index. Data analysis begins with descriptive statistics to profile the sample, followed by advanced inferential techniques including multiple regression analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM) to test relationships among variables and validate the proposed model. The qualitative phase involves focus group discussions with 40 adolescents, using thematic analysis to explore contextual factors and refine the model in alignment with participants' lived experiences. Preliminary expectations suggest that the integrated model will significantly explain variations in adolescent physical activity levels, with psychological constructs such as self-efficacy and motivation, social factors like peer and family support, and environmental influences including access to facilities and safety perceptions serving as pivotal determinants. The study also anticipates revealing complex interactions among these factors, supporting a multidimensional perspective in designing intervention strategies. The findings are expected to contribute to existing literature by offering an empirically tested, comprehensive model that encapsulates the multifactorial nature of adolescent physical activity behavior and delineates pathways for intervention development. This research advances knowledge by bridging gaps in current models that often focus narrowly on individual or environmental factors, thus proposing an integrative framework tailored to the adolescent demographic. The model's validity and reliability will be assessed through confirmatory factor analysis within the SEM, ensuring robustness and practical applicability. Ethical clearance has been secured, with informed consent obtained from participants and guardians, maintaining confidentiality and voluntary participation throughout the study. The main conclusion emphasizes that a holistic, multidimensional approach is essential for effective promotion of physical activity among adolescents. Based on the model's findings, the study recommends integrated intervention programs that address psychological empowerment, foster supportive social environments, and enhance accessible physical infrastructure. Policy implications include the need for cross-sector collaborations involving schools, community organizations, and health agencies. The research also suggests avenues for future exploration, such as longitudinal studies to examine the causal pathways and the adaptation of the model across diverse cultural settings. Ultimately, this study offers a vital contribution to health promotion literature and serves as a strategic blueprint for practitioners and policymakers committed to fostering active lifestyles in adolescence.