Identifying Pathways of how Social Support Influences Physical Activity in Young Women: a Mediation Analysis

Abstract

Background: Physical activity (PA) level decreases during the transition from adolescence into adulthood, especially in women. It is well known that social and personal factors influence PA, but little is known about how and why these factors change over time. The aim of this study is to get a better understanding of how social support and personal/cognitive factors relate to PA in women aged 18-30 by exploring changes over time and identifying pathways. Methods: Survey data provided by the READI cohort will be analysed for healthy women(n~521) aged 18-30 years living in socioeconomically disadvantaged neighbourhoods in Victoria, Australia. Mediation analysis will be conducted on longitudinal data: T1 (2007/08), T2 (2010/11) and T3 (2012/13). Findings: Analyses will be conducted in March 2014. Means, standard deviations and proportions will be calculated for all variables included in the study. Mediation effects and proportions mediated will be calculated. All regression models will be adjusted for possible confounders. Discussion: Results will contribute by identifying modifiable risk factors for PA and future interventions targeting PA among women will benefit.