Title
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Factors affecting physical activity in Ecuadorian adolescents : a focus group study
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Author
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Abstract
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Background: Physical inactivity levels are increasingly prevalent among Ecuadorian adolescents. School-based interventions can be potentially effective in promoting physical activity but must be informed by cultural-specific factors. Methods: Twelve focus groups were carried out with adolescents (n = 80) in rural and urban Ecuador to identify factors influencing physical activity. In addition, 4 focus group discussions with parents (n = 32) and 4 with school staff (n = 32) were conducted. Individual and environmental factors were questioned using the Attitude, Social influences and Self-efficacy model and the socioecological model as theoretical frameworks. Results: Factors influencing physical activity varied between groups. In the rural area farming and norms for girls impeded leisure-time physical activity, whereas urban groups emphasized traffic and crime concerns. Groups from a low socioeconomic status more frequently mentioned a fear of injuries and financial constraints. Several factors were common for all groups including preferences for sedentary activities, poor knowledge, time constraints and laziness, as well as a lack of opportunities at home and school, unsupportive parental rules and lack of role models. Conclusion: A conceptual framework including the identified factors emerged to inform the design of a cultural-sensitive school-based intervention to improve physical activity among Ecuadorian adolescents. Future interventions should be tailored to each setting. |
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Language
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English
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Source (journal)
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Journal of Physical Activity and Health
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Publication
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2015
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ISSN
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15433080
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DOI
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10.1123/JPAH.2013-0288
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Volume/pages
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12
:3
(2015)
, p. 340-348
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ISI
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000354755300008
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Pubmed ID
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24956609
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Full text (Publisher's DOI)
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Full text (open access)
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