Perceived barriers to physical activity in adolescents: a cross-sectional analysis

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Perceived barriers to moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) may contribute to the low rates of MVPA in adolescents. We examined the psychometric properties of scores from the Perceived Barriers to MVPA scale (PB-MVPA) by examining composite reliability and validity evidence based on the internal structure of the PB-MVPA and relations with other variables. Methods: This study was a cross-sectional analysis of data collected in 2013 from adolescents (N=507; Mage=12.40, SD=.62) via self-report scales. Results: Using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, we found that perceived barriers were best represented as two factors representing internal (e.g., “I am not interested in physical activity”) and external (e.g., “I need equipment I don’t have”) dimensions. Composite reliability was over .80. Using multiple regression to examine the relationship between perceived barriers and MVPA, we found that perceived internal barriers were inversely related to MVPA (β=-.32, p<.05). Based on results of the analysis of variances, there were no known-group sex differences for perceived internal and external barriers (p>.26). Conclusions: The PB-MVPA scale demonstrated evidence of score reliability and validity. To improve the understanding of the impact of perceived barriers on MVPA in adolescents, researchers should examine internal and external barriers separately.