Children's perceptions of their home and neighborhood environments, and their association with objectively measured physical activity: a qualitative and quantitative study

• DOI: 10.1093/her/cyg095
• Publication Date: 2004-07-15T00:15:01Z
• Authors: C. Hume
• Keywords: Association (psychology); Sample (material)

Environmental factors may have an important influence on children's physical activity, yet perspectives of their home and neighborhood environments not been widely assessed. The aim this study was to investigate perceptions environments, examine associations between these objectively measured activity. sample consisted 147, 10-year-old Australian children, who drew maps environments. A subsample children photographed places things in that were them. analyzed for themes, the frequency with which particular objects locations appeared. Physical activity using accelerometers. Six themes emerged from qualitative analysis photographs: family home; opportunities sedentary pursuits; food items locations; green space outside areas; school social interaction. Of 11 variables established one two associated These findings contribute a broader understanding environment, highlight potential importance promoting behavior.