Physical and Sedentary Activity Awareness and Habit Strength of Hispanic Adolescents in Puerto Rico

Introduction: Lack of physical activity (PA) has been linked to increases in negative physiological outcomes such as cardiovascular disease risk, obesity, and all-cause mortality. However, reports on current child and adolescent PA trends capture a steady increase in PA until the age of 13, where rates of PA start to steadily decrease and sedentary activity (SA) start to steadily increase. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to determine the extent to which Hispanic youth in Puerto Rico are aware of their PA or SA, and to what extent are these behaviors habitual. A secondary purpose is to determine if awareness or habit strength have moderating effects on attitude, subjective norms, or perceived behavioral control, thus influencing intention to participate in PA or SA. Method: Participants will be Hispanic youth 12 to 14 years of age, currently attending public middle schools in Puerto Rico. The researchers will randomly sample one school from each of four quadrants that divide the school district from the 163 public middle schools throughout Puerto Rico (N = 400). Data will be collected using an established and validated Spanish language questionnaire in combination with two other established and validated English language questionnaires (cross-culturally translated into Spanish) to form the complete survey instrument. Discussion: Upon completion of data analysis, the researchers will have a better understanding of the motivations (volitional or habitual) behind PA and SA of Hispanic adolescents. These data will aid in future policy development and interventions aimed at increasing PA and decreasing SA.