Open AccessPerceptions and Barriers to Physical Activity in Childhood and Adulthood Among Latinas
Author(s) -
Rosenda Murillo,
Mariana Vázquez,
Isabel Leal,
Daphne C. Hernandez,
Qian Lü,
Lorraine R. Reitzel
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
health behavior and policy review
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2326-4403
DOI - 10.14485/hbpr.8.4.2
Subject(s) - thematic analysis , physical activity , perception , psychology , focus group , developmental psychology , categorization , qualitative research , health promotion , gerontology , medicine , public health , sociology , nursing , physical therapy , social science , philosophy , epistemology , neuroscience , anthropology
Objective: The purpose of this qualitative study was to identify perceptions and barriers to physical activity in childhood and adulthood among Latina adults. Methods: We conducted 3 focus groups, 2 dyadic interviews, and an individual interview using semi-structured interview guides with 23 Latina women aged 21-35. A thematic analysis approach employing inductive and deductive coding was utilized to code, categorize, and summarize data into themes. Results: The themes that emerged focused on: (1) physical activity is enjoyable; (2) family influenced physical activity; (3) different lifestyle in the US influenced physical activity; (4) physical activity is important for health; and (5) responsibilities (eg, work, caregiving) as barriers to physical activity in adulthood. Conclusions: Perceptions and barriers to physical activity experienced in both childhood and adulthood should be considered in the promotion of physical activity among Latinas.