Analysis of children's physical activity and its association with adult encouragement and social cognitive variables

Little is known about possible determinants of children's participation in physical activity. In particular, the role of adults has not been clearly identified This study investigated contemporary social cognitive variables, in combination with likely adult influence factors, in predicting intended and self-reported vigorous physical activity for young adolescents. A questionnaire was administered to 147 boys and girls ages 13-14. Questions assessed physical activity levels, including vigorous activity, intention to take part in sports or vigorous physical activity, social cognitive variables, and adult encouragement of physical activity. A structural equation modeling analysis showed a good fit for a model in which vigorous physical activity was predicted by direct paths from adult encouragement and intention, with adult encouragement also predicting vigorous activity indirectly through perceived competence. Intention itself was predicted by adult encouragement and a task achievement goal orientation.