title: Perceptions of Physical Activity and Influences of Participation in Young African-American Adolescent Girls.
abstract: The purpose of this study was to explore African-American adolescent girls' perceptions of physical activity participation, examine how physical activity is defined and identify the most preferred forms of physical activity. Qualitative focus group interviews of a convenience sample (N = 30; Mean age = 14.3 years) were used to identifyfactors that influence African-American girls' physical activity participation as well as to explore how physical activity is defined within this population. Four themes emerged: (a) benefits and motivation to engage in physical activity, (b) behaviors consistent with perceived physical activity, (c) most enjoyable physical activity/activities, and (d) barriers to physical activity. Physical activities that promoted normative adolescent development (i.e., autonomy) were perceived as most beneficial, desirable, and most likely to be sustained. Implications of these findings highlight the importance of the incorporation of socialization and peer engagement in physical activity programs designed for African-American adolescent girls.
authors.forename: Shannon
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Morrison
authors.forename: Candace
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Knight
authors.forename: Annette
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Crew-Gooden
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D001741:Black or African American / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D009043:Motor Activity