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Behavioral Sciences
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Physical Activity, Physical and Psychological Health
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Physical Activity, Physical and Psychological Health

A special issue of Behavioral Sciences (ISSN 2076-328X). This special issue belongs to the section "Health Psychology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 March 2022) | Viewed by 45131

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Armando Cocca

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Guest Editor
Department of Sport Science, University of Innsbruck (AT), 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
Interests: exercise; physical, psychological, and social health; youth; school
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Andrew Soundy

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
Interests: psychosocial adaptation; hope; mental well-being; narrative; storytelling; behavioural interventions; chronic illness; pain; qualitative research
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Health promotion and enhancement are actions with an impact not only on the single individual, but also on communities and, more generally, our society. Owing to that, delving into the physical and psychological domains of health and finding proper strategies to prevent the onset (or reduce the effects) of diseases that are currently spread worldwide should represent a primary objective of the scientific community. Regarding the physical domain, obesity and overweight rates, health-related physical fitness, and a sedentary lifestyle are just some of the factors raising concern among health professionals; in the psychological domain, variables such as chronic stress, anxiety, psychological wellbeing, and self-perceptions (self-esteem, self-concept, body image, etc.)  are considered essential for the determination of one’s health condition. Physical activity (PA) is considered one of the most powerful behaviour-based tools in this field, as its effect on the body and the mind is well known and thoroughly demonstrated. PA has been linked with better body composition and physical growth, enhanced fitness, and more favourable metabolic parameters. Furthermore, it helps in attenuating mental issues at the same time, as it improves one’s mood, emotional intelligence, and general mental state. The aim of this Special Issue is to present the latest PA-based protocols and programs and their effect on one or more physical and psychological variables of health. We hope that authors’ contributions to this issue will help health practitioners from different communities and areas better respond to the needs of diverse populations.

Dr. Andrew Soundy
Dr. Armando Cocca
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Behavioral Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2200 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • exercise
  • physical activity levels
  • intervention programs
  • health strategies
  • school
  • community
  • sports
  • youth
  • adults
  • elderly
  • chronic diseases
  • fitness
  • body composition
  • metabolism and physiology
  • self-assessment
  • depression
  • stress
  • anxiety
  • mental state
  • cognitive development

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Published Papers (14 papers)

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Research

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10 pages, 462 KiB  
Article
Psychosocial Mediation of Light-Moderate Physical Activity and Cognitive Performance among Adults Aged 60+ in China
by Ji Liu and Faying Qiang
Behav. Sci. 2022, 12(6), 175; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs12060175 - 01 Jun 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2083
Abstract
Physical activity is a key determinant of healthy ageing; yet, little is known about the varying degrees of benefits by intensity nor the mediating mechanisms that operate through psychosocial health. Leveraging structural mediation analysis using the 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study [...] Read more.
Physical activity is a key determinant of healthy ageing; yet, little is known about the varying degrees of benefits by intensity nor the mediating mechanisms that operate through psychosocial health. Leveraging structural mediation analysis using the 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) national survey data, we screened 4371 community-dwelling older adults, and investigated the mediation mechanism of psychosocial health on the link between light-moderate physical activity and cognitive performance. Physical activity intensity, psychosocial health, and cognitive performance were measured by the international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ), the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CESD), and the mini-mental state examination (MMSE) instruments, respectively. Results show that, while light physical activity (LPA) and moderate physical activity (MPA) both significantly contribute to better cognitive performance, psychosocial health is a significant mediator only for LPA but not for MPA. For direct pathways, both LPA (std. β = 0.062, p < 0.001, 95% confidence interval = 0.032–0.091) and MPA (std. β = 0.049, p = 0.001, 95% CI = 0.019–0.078) have significant influence on cognitive performance. For mediation pathways, results show that there exists only one indirect channel through which psychosocial health mediates the influence of LPA (std. β = 0.024, p < 0.001, 95% CI = 0.016–0.033), which accounts for 27.9% of the total effect linking LPA and cognitive performance. Findings uncover an important indirect psychosocial mediation channel through which LPA affects cognitive performance among older adults. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity, Physical and Psychological Health)
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19 pages, 635 KiB  
Article
Gym-Goers’ Self-Identification with Physically Attractive Fitness Trainers and Intention to Exercise
by Soekmawati, Robert Jeyakumar Nathan, Vijay Victor and Tan Pei Kian
Behav. Sci. 2022, 12(5), 158; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs12050158 - 23 May 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4551
Abstract
Gym-goers often socially compare themselves with their trainers as they strive to look as attractive as their fitness trainers. The aim of this study was to better understand this phenomenon in the fitness industry. Relying on social comparison theory and social identity theory, [...] Read more.
Gym-goers often socially compare themselves with their trainers as they strive to look as attractive as their fitness trainers. The aim of this study was to better understand this phenomenon in the fitness industry. Relying on social comparison theory and social identity theory, self-identification with a physically attractive fitness trainer was posited to have a strong mediating effect on the relationship between appearance motive, weight management motive and gym-goers’ intention to exercise. The moderation effects of gym-goers’ age and gender in the direct relationships between appearance motive, weight management motive and exercise intention were also examined. The primary outcome of this study revealed that gym-goers who were influenced by appearance and weight management motives are more likely to identify with physically attractive fitness trainers. Additionally, gender significantly moderates the relationships between appearance motive, weight management motive and exercise intention. Appearance and weight management motives are the primary factors that influence the exercise intention of female gym-goers as compared to their male counterparts. This study sheds new insights into understanding the influence of the physical attractiveness of fitness trainers and its impact on gym-goers’ exercise intentions via self and social identification process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity, Physical and Psychological Health)
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20 pages, 929 KiB  
Article
Walking Behavior in Temuco, Chile: The Contribution of Built Environment and Socio-Demographic Factors
by Mohammad Paydar, Javier Arangua Calzado and Asal Kamani Fard
Behav. Sci. 2022, 12(5), 133; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs12050133 - 05 May 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2280
Abstract
The increase in active travel contributes to maintaining the minimum rate of physical activity and therefore has a positive impact on inhabitants’ public health. The level of walking for daily transport has decreased significantly during the last decades in Temuco, Chile. This study [...] Read more.
The increase in active travel contributes to maintaining the minimum rate of physical activity and therefore has a positive impact on inhabitants’ public health. The level of walking for daily transport has decreased significantly during the last decades in Temuco, Chile. This study examined the contribution of socio-demographic factors, active family environment, and built environment factors to walking behavior and walking level based on three types of destination in Temuco. The results of Encuesta Origin Destino (EOD 2013), geographic information system (GIS), and, finally, hierarchical multiple regression analysis were used to examine the objectives. Correlations were found between total walking behavior, walking level based on three destination types, and several socio-demographic factors such as age, gender, and access to TV and Internet. Furthermore, correlations were found between walking behavior and active family environment, as well as several built environment factors. For instance, the higher mixed land use as well as number of parks and plazas contribute towards more overall walking as well as two types of walking. Identifying that most persons who walk come from low-income families and the negative impact of network connectivity on overall walking are the major differences between this context and developed countries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity, Physical and Psychological Health)
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13 pages, 598 KiB  
Article
Physical Activity and Depression in Adolescents: Evidence from China Family Panel Studies
by Jiafeng Gu
Behav. Sci. 2022, 12(3), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs12030071 - 08 Mar 2022
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5130
Abstract
Depression in adolescents is a major public health disorder. The relationship between physical activity and risk of depression in adolescents was examined using three waves of data from the China Family Panel Studies in 2020. The risk of depression was significantly higher among [...] Read more.
Depression in adolescents is a major public health disorder. The relationship between physical activity and risk of depression in adolescents was examined using three waves of data from the China Family Panel Studies in 2020. The risk of depression was significantly higher among adolescents who reported lower frequency and shorter duration of physical exercise than those who reported physical exercise more frequently and for a longer duration. The risk of depression was significantly higher among adolescents who reported intense physical exercise than those who reported little or no intense physical exercise. The amount of time spent on housework by adolescents is inversely associated with depression. These results provide somewhat stronger evidence for an activity–depression link than previous studies and suggest a differential role for different types of physical activity, such as exercise and housework. The overall model predicting depression in adolescents (LR chi-squared = 95.974, p < 0.001, Nagelkerke R-square = 0.183) was statistically significant. To effectively control depression in adolescents, the government, schools and parents need to act together to guide adolescents towards participation in appropriate physical activities. The appropriate level of physical activity is for adolescents to experience breathing, rapid heartbeat, and slight perspiration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity, Physical and Psychological Health)
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15 pages, 827 KiB  
Article
Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Brain Electrical Activity, Heart Rate Variability, and Dual-Task Performance in Healthy and Fibromyalgia Women: A Study Protocol
by Mari Carmen Gomez-Alvaro, Santos Villafaina, Juan Luis Leon-Llamas, Alvaro Murillo-Garcia, María Melo-Alonso, Jesús Sánchez-Gómez, Pablo Molero, Ricardo Cano-Plasencia and Narcis Gusi
Behav. Sci. 2022, 12(2), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs12020037 - 04 Feb 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2902
Abstract
People with fibromyalgia could experience physical and cognitive impairments. Furthermore, when performing two tasks at the same time, people with fibromyalgia showed a higher dual-task cost compared to a single task than healthy people. This may result in poorer performance of activities of [...] Read more.
People with fibromyalgia could experience physical and cognitive impairments. Furthermore, when performing two tasks at the same time, people with fibromyalgia showed a higher dual-task cost compared to a single task than healthy people. This may result in poorer performance of activities of daily living that are commonly presented as a combination of two or more tasks. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a promising nonpharmacological therapy. However, there is controversy regarding the intensities and the effectiveness of this therapy. Thus, the present study will aim: (1) to compare the effectiveness and the impact of two tDCS intensities (1 mA and 2 mA) on cognitive, motor, brain functions, and cardiac autonomic modulation; (2) to study the impact of tDCS on the dual-task performance and creativity after applying tDCS in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. In this study, 26 women will participate and will be divided into two groups: women with fibromyalgia (n = 13), and healthy controls (n = 13). A reduction in cognitive-motor interference in dual-task performance is expected, as well as a modification in neurophysiological parameters and an improvement in cardiac autonomic modulation. Lastly, no different effects are expected depending on the stimulation intensity applied. The obtained results will help to determine if tDCS in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex could improve the occupational performance of women with fibromyalgia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity, Physical and Psychological Health)
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10 pages, 431 KiB  
Article
Relationship between Objectively and Subjectively Measured Physical Activity in Adolescents during and after COVID-19 Restrictions
by Armando Cocca, Klaus Greier, Clemens Drenowatz and Gerhard Ruedl
Behav. Sci. 2021, 11(12), 177; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs11120177 - 11 Dec 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2824
Abstract
Background: Studying the relationship between subjectively and objectively measured physical activity (PA) can provide viable information on youths’ behaviors. However, the restrictions due to COVID-19 pandemic, which reduced children’s possibilities to be active, may negatively affect it. The aim of this study was [...] Read more.
Background: Studying the relationship between subjectively and objectively measured physical activity (PA) can provide viable information on youths’ behaviors. However, the restrictions due to COVID-19 pandemic, which reduced children’s possibilities to be active, may negatively affect it. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between subjectively and objectively measured PA levels (light, moderate, vigorous, and moderate-to-vigorous) during COVID-19-based restrictions and after they were lifted, and to determine whether such relationships changed in these two periods. Methods: A total of 26 adolescents (58% girls; mean age = 12.4 ± 0.5) wore accelerometers during public restrictions and after they were removed. Participants also completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire during the same periods. Results: High significant correlations were found at all levels of PA (r = 0.767–0.968) in both time periods, except for moderate PA during restrictions. Comparing the two periods, significantly higher correlations were found for moderate PA (p < 0.001) and moderate-to-vigorous PA (p = 0.003) after restrictions were lifted. Conclusions: In this highly active cohort of adolescents, results emphasize the potential threat of lockdown conditions for youths’ ability to accurately perceive their behaviors, with possible detrimental consequences on the short- and long-term health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity, Physical and Psychological Health)
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14 pages, 309 KiB  
Article
Validity and Reliability of the Baby and Child Eating Behavior Questionnaire, Toddler Version (BEBQ-Mex and CEBQ-T-Mex) in a Low Sociodemographic Sample Recruited in a Mexican Hospital
by Claudia Hunot-Alexander, Jocelyn González-Toribio, Edgar Manuel Vásquez-Garibay, Alfredo Larrosa-Haro, Erika Casillas-Toral and Carmen Patricia Curiel-Curiel
Behav. Sci. 2021, 11(12), 168; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs11120168 - 02 Dec 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3639
Abstract
The objective of this study was to validate and measure the internal reliability of the Baby and Child Eating Behavior Questionnaires for Toddlers (BEBQ-Mex and CEBQ-T-Mex), that evaluate appetitive trait (ATs). Mothers recruited from a public hospital in Guadalajara, Mexico, completed the BEBQ-Mex [...] Read more.
The objective of this study was to validate and measure the internal reliability of the Baby and Child Eating Behavior Questionnaires for Toddlers (BEBQ-Mex and CEBQ-T-Mex), that evaluate appetitive trait (ATs). Mothers recruited from a public hospital in Guadalajara, Mexico, completed the BEBQ-Mex or CEBQ-T-Mex along with information on sociodemographic characteristics. Internal reliability of the BEBQ-Mex was sufficient for Food Responsiveness (FR) (Cronbach α = 0.82), while Enjoyment of Food (EF) and Satiety Responsiveness (SR) showed poor reliability (α = 0.56) and Slowness in Eating (SE) had unacceptable reliability (a = 0.36). All reliability values for the CEBQ-T-Mex were acceptable (>0.70), except for SE (α = 0.64). Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) revealed an adequate model fit for the BEBQ-Mex, except the SE subscale. CFA for the CEBQ-T-Mex confirmed the six-factor structure. Mothers of a low sociodemographic background were unable to recognize their infants’ ATs; the BEBQ-Mex partly met the criteria for validity and reliability. Mothers from similar sociodemographic characteristics were more able to recognize the ATs of their toddlers than their infants; the CEBQ-T-Mex was found to be a valid and reliable tool. Findings support the need to help mothers’ ability to recognize their infants’ ATs, which have been previously associated with weight and growth. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity, Physical and Psychological Health)
12 pages, 871 KiB  
Article
The Role of Physical Activity in the Relationship between Satisfaction with Life and Health-Related Quality of Life in School-Age Adolescents
by Santos Villafaina, Miguel Ángel Tapia-Serrano, Mikel Vaquero-Solís, Juan Luis León-Llamas and Pedro Antonio Sánchez-Miguel
Behav. Sci. 2021, 11(9), 121; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs11090121 - 03 Sep 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2879
Abstract
(1) Background: Adolescence is a critical stage in the development of healthy habits. In this regard, physical activity has emerged as a useful tool to improve satisfaction with life and health-related quality of life in adolescents. Therefore, the aim of the present study [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Adolescence is a critical stage in the development of healthy habits. In this regard, physical activity has emerged as a useful tool to improve satisfaction with life and health-related quality of life in adolescents. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to examine the mediating role of physical activity in the relationship between satisfaction with life and health-related quality of life in adolescent boys and girls. Also, we aimed to investigate the differences between sexes in the HRQoL, physical activity level, and satisfaction with life. (2) Methods: A total of 297 adolescents, ranging in age from 11 to 12 years (11.46 ± 1.63), participated in this cross-sectional study. The Satisfaction with life scale, Physical activity Questionnaire for Adolescents and the KIDSCREEN-10 questionnaires were employed. (3) Results: The estimated indirect effect showed that physical activity level was a mediator of the positive effect of satisfaction with life on health-related quality of life (β = 0.105, 95% CI = 0.031; 0.202). However, the index of moderated mediation showed that sex is not a significant moderator of the mediating role of physical activity in the relationship between satisfaction with life and HRQoL (β = −0.033, 95% CI = −0.023, 0.136). Furthermore, significant differences in satisfaction with life were found, with girls manifesting lower values (p-value = 0.026). (4) Conclusion: This study shows the importance of physical activity during adolescence and the association of this behavior with the health-related quality of life of adolescents. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity, Physical and Psychological Health)
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10 pages, 266 KiB  
Article
Body Image Quality of Life Related to Light Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior among Young Adults with Overweight/Obesity
by Jamie M. Faro, Jessica A. Whiteley, Laura L. Hayman and Melissa A. Napolitano
Behav. Sci. 2021, 11(8), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs11080111 - 12 Aug 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2604
Abstract
Sedentary behaviors, low levels of physical activity (PA), and low body image quality of life have been identified during college years and associated with poor health outcomes. Public health efforts have recently focused on decreasing sedentary time by increasing light physical activity, both [...] Read more.
Sedentary behaviors, low levels of physical activity (PA), and low body image quality of life have been identified during college years and associated with poor health outcomes. Public health efforts have recently focused on decreasing sedentary time by increasing light physical activity, both of which have been associated with body image quality of life, though mainly through self-report. In this cross-sectional study, we examined objective actigraphy and survey data from 404 of 459 young adults with overweight and obesity (mean age 23.3 ± 4.4 years, 78.4% female, 55.4% white). PA was measured using an accelerometer worn during waking hours for >10 h/day for four days. Body image quality of life was assessed using the Body Image Quality of Life Inventory Scale. Body image was positively correlated with light PA (r = 0.15) and inversely correlated with BMI (Pearson’s r = −0.20) and sedentary time (r = −0.10), but not moderate PA, vigorous PA, or MVPA. Light PA and sedentary time were significantly inversely correlated (r = −0.38). When controlling for covariates, higher body image quality of life was significantly associated with higher levels of light PA (β = 0.39; p < 0.01) and lower sedentary time (β = −0.39; p = 0.02). Participants with lower body image quality of life enrolled in weight loss interventions may benefit from prescriptions of light PA in conjunction with decreasing sedentary behaviors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity, Physical and Psychological Health)
8 pages, 580 KiB  
Article
Effects of General Fatigue Induced by Exhaustive Exercise on Posture and Gait Stability of Healthy Young Men
by Marinella Coco, Donatella Di Corrado, Francesco Cirillo, Chiara Iacono, Vincenzo Perciavalle and Andrea Buscemi
Behav. Sci. 2021, 11(5), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs11050072 - 08 May 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1990
Abstract
Bipedal walking is a composite task requiring integration of many control circuitries in the brain and spinal cord. The present study was carried out to verify whether an increase in blood lactate, such as that associated with a high intensity exercise, is able [...] Read more.
Bipedal walking is a composite task requiring integration of many control circuitries in the brain and spinal cord. The present study was carried out to verify whether an increase in blood lactate, such as that associated with a high intensity exercise, is able to significantly modify the qualitative and/or quantitative aspects of human walking. Eighteen healthy physically male participants, aged between 20 and 24 years (M = 21.8, SD = 1.22), were recruited for the study. For this purpose, the experimental protocol included the measure of blood lactate levels with the aim of assessing possible relations between lactate blood values and different aspect of walking after an exhaustive exercise. An exhaustive exercise was associated with a strong increase of blood lactate levels and produced a significant worsening in the ability to maintain the bipodalic upright posture as well as the fluidity of walking. Our results suggest that exhausting bouts impose greater challenges on postural control. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity, Physical and Psychological Health)
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12 pages, 270 KiB  
Article
Awareness and Behaviors Regarding COVID-19 among Albanian Undergraduates
by Francesca Gallè, Arjeta Veshi, Elita Anna Sabella, Morena Çitozi, Giovanna Da Molin, Stefano Ferracuti, Giorgio Liguori, Giovanni Battista Orsi, Christian Napoli and Christian Napoli
Behav. Sci. 2021, 11(4), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs11040045 - 31 Mar 2021
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2970
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to the adoption of restriction measures that have had notable consequences on the health and wellbeing of individuals. This survey was carried out on a sample of 905 Albanian undergraduates to assess their knowledge about [...] Read more.
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to the adoption of restriction measures that have had notable consequences on the health and wellbeing of individuals. This survey was carried out on a sample of 905 Albanian undergraduates to assess their knowledge about COVID-19 and their health-related behaviors and communication changes during lockdown. The students were invited to complete a pre-validated questionnaire during lessons. The results show that the majority of the surveyed students were able to answer correctly about the main epidemiological features of the disease. The level of knowledge was proven to be proportional to the students’ education level (enrollment year and age). No considerable relationship emerged with respect to diet or smoking. On the other hand, a relevant portion of the sample (37.6%) declared decreased physical activity (PA). Finally, a notable increase in the intensity and frequency of communication with their peers and with their parents was declared by 34.7% and 50.8% of the sample, respectively. Lifestyle variables were found to be mutually related, as were communication outcomes. The participants showed a satisfactory awareness regarding the COVID-19 epidemic. However, the registered reduction in PA may represent a public health issue and should be addressed with adequate policies. The use of electronic media seems to have increased communication habits in this population group. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity, Physical and Psychological Health)
13 pages, 1087 KiB  
Article
Perseverative Cognition and Snack Choice: An Online Pilot Investigation
by Timothy M. Eschle and Dane McCarrick
Behav. Sci. 2021, 11(3), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs11030033 - 11 Mar 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2699
Abstract
Perseverative cognition (PC), consisting of worry and rumination, has been consistently linked to a variety of poorer health outcomes, namely via the worsening of stress-induced health risk behaviours. However, research into PC and unhealthy food choice, a key health behaviour, still remains relatively [...] Read more.
Perseverative cognition (PC), consisting of worry and rumination, has been consistently linked to a variety of poorer health outcomes, namely via the worsening of stress-induced health risk behaviours. However, research into PC and unhealthy food choice, a key health behaviour, still remains relatively unexplored. In the current pilot investigation, 284 participants were recruited to take part in an online food choice paradigm before completing the Perseverative Thinking Questionnaire (PTQ) and the Brief State Rumination Inventory (BSRI). As a reduced availability of unhealthy snacks has been shown to improve snack choice, participants were randomly allocated to either an even condition (a 3:3 ratio of ≤99 kcal and ≥199 kcal snacks) or an uneven condition (a 4:2 ratio in favour of ≤99 kcal snacks). It was hypothesized that higher levels of PC may predict greater instances of poorer snack choices across, or even within, this paradigm. Despite an increase availability of lower calorie snacks leading to a healthier snack choice, both state and trait PC measures did not significantly influence snack choice irrespective of this varying availability. Although, marginal trends were found for higher state PC and higher calorie crisp selections. The current pilot therefore adds to the growing literature advocating for the use of behavioural economic tactics to engender healthier food choices, yet further work is needed to unpick the mediating role of PC (and its components) in snack consumption paradigms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity, Physical and Psychological Health)
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Review

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15 pages, 623 KiB  
Review
An Integrative Review Considering the Impact of Storytelling and Sharing Interventions in Stroke
by Rana Alawafi, Sheeba Rosewilliam and Andrew Soundy
Behav. Sci. 2021, 11(6), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs11060088 - 16 Jun 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2972
Abstract
Background: Review-based research is needed which can establish the psychosocial outcomes and mechanisms of “storytelling and sharing” interventions for people with stroke. This information will act to inform the value and development of such interventions. Methods: An integrative review was conducted in three [...] Read more.
Background: Review-based research is needed which can establish the psychosocial outcomes and mechanisms of “storytelling and sharing” interventions for people with stroke. This information will act to inform the value and development of such interventions. Methods: An integrative review was conducted in three stages: (a) a systematic search strategy was undertaken to focus on articles between 2009 until January 2020 to locate articles the considered storytelling and sharing interventions for people diagnosed with stroke; (b) critical appraisal was undertaken to assess study quality; and (c) synthesis within three stages including data reduction, data display and conclusion. Results: Fourteen articles (including 727 participants) were identified that met the eligibility criteria. Five themes were identified that represented the outcome and mechanisms that appeared to be associated with a stroke intervention. These included introducing the concept of hope and learning to be positive, the enhanced ability to cope, the impact of loneliness and social interaction, impact on emotions, depression and related emotions such as fear. Conclusions: Storytelling interventions appear to impact loneliness, introduce positivity and hope and enable coping through knowledge exchange. The main mechanisms which appeared to influence these outcomes were social comparisons and social control. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity, Physical and Psychological Health)
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23 pages, 706 KiB  
Review
The Positive Impact and Associated Mechanisms of Physical Activity on Mental Health in Underprivileged Children and Adolescents: An Integrative Review
by Lauren T. Rose and Andrew Soundy
Behav. Sci. 2020, 10(11), 171; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs10110171 - 08 Nov 2020
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3922
Abstract
(1) Background: Review-based studies are required to consider the different designs and data that describe the association between physical activity and mental health for underprivileged children and adolescents. There is a particular need to identify mechanisms which could explain the association, and factors [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Review-based studies are required to consider the different designs and data that describe the association between physical activity and mental health for underprivileged children and adolescents. There is a particular need to identify mechanisms which could explain the association, and factors which influence the association in this population group. (2) Methods: An integrative review with a systematic search was conducted in three stages: (i) a systematic literature search on four databases from inception until May 2020. Studies were eligible if they examined underprivileged children, involved moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and had a focus on at least one outcome measure related to mental health. (ii) Two critical appraisal tools were used to assess quality across different study designs. (iii) Synthesis was undertaken in four stages, examining social, internal and physical outcomes and mechanisms. (3) Results: A total of 16 studies were included (2 qualitative; 12 quantitative and 2 mixed methods). Fifteen (15/16; 93.8%) showed an association between MVPA and a significant improvement in at least one mental health outcome. The most studied outcomes included: internal aspects (n = 14), significant effects were identified in 12/14 studies; social aspects (n = 6), significant effects were identified across all studies and finally physical aspects (n = 5), significant effects were found in 3/5 studies. Autonomy support was identified as a mechanism to explain the change, whilst age and gender influenced the strength of the association. (4) Conclusions: The findings provide confirmation of the link between MVPA and the improved mental health and wellbeing of disadvantaged children and adolescents. Future research must consider the long-term effect through longitudinal studies, along with determining whether any specific types of PA are more impactful than others. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity, Physical and Psychological Health)
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