The Effect of Peer Presence on Moderate-to-Vigorous Physical Activity

Author

Nancy Thao, University of the PacificFollow

Date of Award

2018

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (M.A.)

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Matthew Normand

First Committee Member

Carolynn S. Kohn

Second Committee Member

Corey S. Stocco

Abstract

The CDC estimated that rates of children’s physical activity are extremely low which could lead to various health problems (e.g., hypertension, lipid disorders). Fortunately, previous research has demonstrated that peers, specifically peers identified as preferred, might influence children’s levels of physical activity. However, this variable has not been experimentally manipulated. The purpose of the current study was to assess the effects of peer presence on the MVPA exhibited by kindergarten children, by exposing participants to peers identified as preferred. Results indicated that the presence of a peer identified as preferred increased the levels of MVPA for one participant but failed to increase three participants’ levels of MVPA. Additionally, two participants’ MVPA moderately increased during the first antecedent manipulation but failed to maintain in the second phase of the antecedent condition. In regards to engagement with peers, participants engaged in higher levels of interactive play with peers than parallel play.

Pages

73

Recommended Citation

Thao, Nancy. (2018). The Effect of Peer Presence on Moderate-to-Vigorous Physical Activity. University of the Pacific, Thesis. https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/uop_etds/3566