Milken Institute School of Public Health Poster Presentations (Marvin Center & Video)
Poster Number
104
Document Type
Poster
Status
Graduate Student - Masters
Abstract Category
Prevention and Community Health
Keywords
public health, physical activity, role models, nutrition, obesity
Publication Date
Spring 2018
Abstract
Background. Role models can have a profound impact on an individual’s development and lifelong behaviors. However, there are gaps in research when it comes to the impact of role models among young adults, particularly related to health behaviors. Previous research has primarily focused on youth, leaving a gap of knowledge surrounding the developmental life stage of young adulthood. Little research has been done examining health risk behaviors such as physical inactivity and unhealthy dietary practices. It is important for young adults to develop healthy habits in college, for many habits will follow young adults into their adult lifespan.
Purpose. To investigate the relationship between self-identified role models with physical activity and diet among young adults ages 18-35. This will be done by analyzing three research questions: (1) do reported role models differ based on weight status, gender, ethnicity/race, and school year? (2) do role models differ for diet and physical activity?; and (3) how do young adult role models relate to physical activity and eating habits?.
Methods. Young adults aged 18-35 enrolled in a healthy body weight randomized controlled trial completed assessments prior to study enrollment. These included clinic measured height and weight, objective physical activity monitoring via accelerometer, online 24-hour food recalls, and questionnaires assessing physical activity behavior, as well as activity and healthy eating role models.
Results. The analyses are ongoing as part of the first author’s MPH Culminating Experience
Project. Preliminary results will be available to present during research day.
Conclusion. It is anticipated that results will confirm the importance of role models for young adults, yet there will be important demographic and behavior-specific findings. Results and implications will be discussed, giving suggestions for future research areas and closing a gap in research in the young adult population.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.
Open Access
1
Exploring the relationship among role models, physical activity and dietary behaviors among young adults enrolled in a weight management trial
Background. Role models can have a profound impact on an individual’s development and lifelong behaviors. However, there are gaps in research when it comes to the impact of role models among young adults, particularly related to health behaviors. Previous research has primarily focused on youth, leaving a gap of knowledge surrounding the developmental life stage of young adulthood. Little research has been done examining health risk behaviors such as physical inactivity and unhealthy dietary practices. It is important for young adults to develop healthy habits in college, for many habits will follow young adults into their adult lifespan.
Purpose. To investigate the relationship between self-identified role models with physical activity and diet among young adults ages 18-35. This will be done by analyzing three research questions: (1) do reported role models differ based on weight status, gender, ethnicity/race, and school year? (2) do role models differ for diet and physical activity?; and (3) how do young adult role models relate to physical activity and eating habits?.
Methods. Young adults aged 18-35 enrolled in a healthy body weight randomized controlled trial completed assessments prior to study enrollment. These included clinic measured height and weight, objective physical activity monitoring via accelerometer, online 24-hour food recalls, and questionnaires assessing physical activity behavior, as well as activity and healthy eating role models.
Results. The analyses are ongoing as part of the first author’s MPH Culminating Experience
Project. Preliminary results will be available to present during research day.
Conclusion. It is anticipated that results will confirm the importance of role models for young adults, yet there will be important demographic and behavior-specific findings. Results and implications will be discussed, giving suggestions for future research areas and closing a gap in research in the young adult population.
Comments
Presented at GW Annual Research Days 2018.