title: Improving physical self-perception in adolescent boys from disadvantaged schools: psychological outcomes from the Physical Activity Leaders randomized controlled trial.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To evaluate the effect of a school-based obesity prevention programme on physical self-perception and key physical-activity related cognitions in adolescent boys from disadvantaged secondary schools. A secondary objective was to determine if any psychological changes were associated with improved weight status.
  
  
  METHODS
  Participants (n = 100, age = 14.3[0.6]) were randomized to the PALS (Physical Activity Leaders) intervention (n = 50) or a control group (n = 50) and assessed at baseline, 3- and 6-month follow up. Measures included BMI, BMI z-score and % body fat (bioelectrical impedance analysis). Students also completed the Children's Physical Self-Perception Profile and a physical activity-related cognitions questionnaire. The findings include secondary data analyses.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Relative to the controls, the PALS group significantly increased their physical self worth (p = .01), perceived physical condition (p = .02), resistance training self efficacy (p < .001) and their use of physical activity behavioural strategies (p = .02).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  A school-based obesity prevention programme that targeted leadership skills improved psychological health in the physical domain in adolescent boys from disadvantaged schools.
authors.affiliation: Faculty of Education & Arts, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia. philip.morgan@newcastle.edu.au
authors.forename: P J
authors.initials: PJ
authors.lastname: Morgan
authors.forename: K L
authors.initials: KL
authors.lastname: Saunders
authors.forename: D R
authors.initials: DR
authors.lastname: Lubans
mesh_terms: D050154:Adiposity; D000293:Adolescent; D000294:Adolescent Behavior; D000367:Age Factors; D001828:Body Image; D015992:Body Mass Index; D016000:Cluster Analysis; D003071:Cognition; D017097:Electric Impedance; D006801:Humans; D007857:Leadership; D016014:Linear Models; D008297:Male; D009043:Motor Activity; D009517:New South Wales; D009765:Obesity / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology; D011203:Poverty; D011446:Prospective Studies; D055070:Resistance Training; D012572:School Health Services; D012649:Self Concept; D012737:Sex Factors; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D035862:Vulnerable Populations; D015431:Weight Loss