Item – Theses Canada

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OCLC number
702790266
Link(s) to full text
LAC copy
LAC copy
Author
Lefaivre, Marie-josée.
Title
Physical activity participation and exercise beliefs in adolescents and young adults with high and low anxiety sensitivity.
Degree
Ph. D. -- Dalhousie University, 2009
Publisher
Ottawa : Library and Archives Canada = Bibliothèque et Archives Canada, [2010]
Description
3 microfiches
Notes
Includes bibliographical references.
Abstract
Anxiety sensitivity (AS) refers to the fear of arousal-related physiological sensations (e.g., racing heartbeat, increased respiration, perspiration). Since physical activity can bring on similar sensations, individuals with high AS may be inclined to avoid exercise putting them at increased risk for health-related problems. The goal of this dissertation was to better understand the relationship between AS, physical activity, and social-cognitive variables in young adults (high AS and low AS undergraduate students; Study 1) and adolescents (grade-10 students; Study 2). Sex differences were also examined. Data was collected using self-reported questionnaires as part of cross-sectional research designs. Study 2 also included a running endurance test. Study 1 revealed that, on average, HAS individuals participated in less high-intensity exercise and reported being less fit than LAS individuals. Study 2 found limited support for the relationship between AS and exercise (self-reported levels and running endurance test). Correlations between AS and exercise were in expected directions, but quite small and rarely significant. Regarding exercise beliefs, Study 1 showed that HAS (vs. LAS) participants were less likely to report exercising for positive reinforcement reasons (enjoyment and affiliation). Anxiety sensitivity was found to moderate the relationship between enjoyment and vigorous-intensity exercise. Higher levels of vigorous-intensity exercise were generally reported at higher levels of enjoyment motives, but this relationship was more marked in the LAS (vs. HAS) group. In Study 2, AS physical concerns, particularly in girls, predicted more benefits (vs. barriers) to exercise, but not exercise self-efficacy. A positive relationship was found between AS levels and self-reported anticipatory anxiety prior to the running endurance test. In both studies, and particularly in girls, higher levels of AS were associated with more negative appraisals (e.g., less enjoyable, lower well-being, & higher distress) of moderate-to-high intensity exercise (e.g., self-reported exercise, and running test). These findings support theoretical propositions that HAS individuals would be more inclined to find physical activity distressing given that they fear experiencing arousal-reactive sensations akin to those associated with exercise. Results suggest that exercise beliefs and AS should be considered when promoting a physically active lifestyle. Limitations, recommendations for future research, and clinical implications are discussed.
ISBN
9780494564233
0494564237