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The uptake and benefits of the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines for Adults with Multiple Sclerosis (PAGs) have been validated, but there is limited understanding regarding the knowledge, needs, and preferences of people with multiple sclerosis (MS) for implementing the PAGs outside of clinical research. The authors conducted online, semistructured interviews with 40 persons with MS from across the United States seeking information on awareness of and potential approaches for increasing the uptake of the PAGs. They identified first impressions and potential approaches for increasing the uptake of the PAGs through inductive, semantic thematic analysis. Participants perceived the PAGs as a good introduction for structured exercise but desired more information on how to meet the PAGs. Participants further believed that modifying the PAGs for inclusivity and applying a multifaceted approach for dissemination and implementation may increase uptake of exercise behavior. Physical activity research in MS should include both analyzing the effects of exercise and the unique challenges faced by persons with MS in putting the PAGs into practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The study aimed to 1) examine relationships between contexts of PA, personality traits, and high school sports participation (sports) and 2) determine significant PA correlates in a college population. Participants: 237 undergraduates at a university in the United States between September 2020 and May 2021 participated. Methods: Participants completed a survey evaluating PA, personality traits, sports, and demographic variables. Pearson partial correlations assessed correlations between different PA domains, personality traits, and sports. Conscientiousness was positively associated with all PA measures (r =.14-.30), except for active transport PA. Sports were related to vigorous and leisure PA. Conscientiousness is related to PA measures and is a significant PA correlate. However, more research is necessary to understand if leisure time PA can enhance Conscientiousness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shame-proneness refers to one's dispositional tendency to experience shame across a variety of situations. Shame-proneness is significantly related to a wide range of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, substance abuse, and more. Attachment theory and interpersonal neurobiology suggest that secure attachment protects against shame-proneness, whereas insecure attachment contributes to shame-proneness. However, there is scant empirical research exploring this relationship. This study explored childhood attachment with primary caregivers as a predictor of shame-proneness in adulthood. A sample of 340 adults, U.S. residents aged 18 and over, was recruited through Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk), an online crowdsourcing platform. Multiple regression analyses revealed that certain insecure attachment styles, specifically anxiety and disorganization, significantly related to shame-proneness, whereas avoidance did not. Secure attachment was negatively related to shame-proneness, but the relationship was statistically insignificant. Social workers and other mental health professionals can benefit from an increased understanding of the relationship between childhood attachment and shame-proneness that this study provides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People with multiple sclerosis (MS) often have to cope with high levels of stress. Lazarus and Folkman's (1984) stress–appraisal–coping theory emphasizes the relationship between the individual and the environment, suggesting that a stress response is highly influenced by individual appraisal processes. This study aimed to evaluate constructs of Lazarus and Folkman's stress–appraisal–coping theory and positive human traits as predictors of perceived stress in a sample of 477 adults with MS. Hierarchical regression analysis was used to determine the incremental variance in perceived stress accounted for by demographic covariates, functional disabilities, challenge appraisal, and positive human traits. Core self-evaluations, challenge appraisal, limitations in social/cognitive functioning, agency hope, and age were significant predictors in the final model, accounting for 68% of the variance in perceived stress scores (R 2 =.68, f 2 = 2.13; large effect size). Core self-evaluations and challenge appraisal were the strongest predictors of perceived stress. The findings from this study will help rehabilitation professionals develop empirically supported stress management and well-being interventions, enabling people with MS to cope effectively with stressors and challenges and improve their health and well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to examine the inclusiveness of visually impaired youths' experiences in integrated physical education. An experiential qualitative research approach was utilized, and 22 visually impaired youth (age 12–17 years) acted as participants. Data sources included one-on-one Zoom interviews, written responses to long-answer prompts, and reflexive interview notes. Data were analyzed using a reflexive thematic analysis approach, and three themes were constructed: (a) I'm not there, so how could I: The absent person; (b) I can't see, so I can't do it: The incapable person; and (c) It'd be nice to feel like everyone else: The "normal" person. Participants described that feelings of inclusion were unavailable to them and that feeling, and being viewed as, absent, incapable, and (not) "normal" highlighted this unavailability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored the experiences of students with orthopedic impairments in integrated physical education (PE) classes. An interpretative phenomenological analysis research approach was used, and six students with orthopedic impairments (age = 10–14 years) served as participants. Data sources were semistructured, audiotaped interviews and reflective interview notes. Based on data analysis, three themes were developed—"Without it, they probably would like, just treat me normal," visibility, disclosure, and expectations; "I sit out," limited participation and a lack of modifications/accommodations; and "PE doesn't feel great," social interactions and perception of self. The experiences portrayed throughout these themes highlight the marginalization and lack of access that the participants encountered in their integrated PE classes. The findings indicated that PE professionals working with students with orthopedic impairments may benefit from reflecting on personal biases and their instructional practices in an effort to improve the quality of PE experiences for these students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nearly 80% of persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) do not engage in sufficient amounts of exercise for managing symptoms and improving quality of life. We have addressed this problem by developing a systematic line of qualitative research targeting the patient–provider interaction for promotion of exercise within comprehensive MS care. This research resulted in a conceptual model that guides health care providers in promoting exercise among persons with MS. The current study involves a final evaluation of the model based on semistructured interviews with 28 MS health care providers. Providers perceived that the model was a strong conceptualization of practice that reflected the MS illness course and supported exercise behavior change, but more steps were required to translate the model from concept into practice, including improved clarity of the model, and the development of practice models. The evaluation yielded a final conceptual model for exercise promotion in MS through the patient–provider interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Physical activity (PA) is a promising intervention for disease modification and symptom management in multiple sclerosis (MS); however, there is a lack of research focusing on PA behavior change interventions for persons newly diagnosed with MS. Such PA behavior change interventions should be developed based on a strong empirical foundation of understanding the behavior and its determinants (ie, what to target for changes to occur). To that end, this qualitative study examined factors explaining PA in persons newly diagnosed with MS and identified potential targets for future behavior change intervention development based on the Capability-Opportunity-Motivation-Behavior (COM-B) model. METHODS: Twenty individuals diagnosed with MS within the past 2 years underwent one-on-one semistructured interviews using questions developed based on the COM-B model. Data were analyzed using reflective thematic analysis, and the identified themes were then mapped with the COM-B model. RESULTS: Factors explaining PA in the study sample were identified across the COM-B components. The typical factors include knowledge and skills to sufficiently engage in PA with appropriate approaches, ability to adapt and navigate through new environmental and social difficulties after diagnosis, and motivation resulting from a combination of factors, such as outcome expectation, belief of capabilities, role/identity, reinforcement, and emotions. CONCLUSIONS: The COM-B model was applied successfully in this study to understand PA behavior and identify potential targets for behavior change in individuals newly diagnosed with MS. Future behavior change interventions should consider addressing these factors to generate effective PA behavior change in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Post-stroke fatigue can manifest as both physical and mental fatigue. The Fatigue Scale for Motor and Cognitive Functions (FSMC) evaluates fatigue on the motor and cognitive domains separately, however, the psychometric properties of this measure in stroke have not been reported. OBJECTIVE: To determine the internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and concurrent validity of the FSMC in chronic stroke. METHODS: Thirty-four participants with chronic stroke (55.26±12.27 years of age; 59.53±89.21 months post-stroke) completed the FSMC on two separate visits. Internal consistency and reliability of the FSMC were examined using Cronbach's alpha and two-way mixed effects intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), respectively. Correlation between the FSMC and the Fatigue Severity Scale and Visual Analog Scale-Fatigue was used to assess concurrent validity. RESULTS: Internal consistency was excellent (Cronbach's alpha > 0.9) and reliability was moderate to good (ICC = 0.72–0.81) for all FSMC scores. The FSMC demonstrated moderate to good concurrent validity with the Fatigue Severity Scale (ρ= 0.66–0.72) but only fair concurrent validity with the Visual Analog Scale-Fatigue (ρ= 0.37–0.44). CONCLUSION: The FSMC is a valid and reliable measure of post-stroke fatigue and may be a useful tool to examine physical fatigue and cognitive fatigue in chronic stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

US service members are at elevated risk for distress and suicidal behavior, compared to the general US population. However, despite the availability of evidence-based treatments, only 40% of Service members in need of mental health care seek help. One potential reason for the lower use of services is that service members experience stigma or concerns that the act of seeking mental health care from a mental health provider carries a mark of disgrace. The Military Stigma Scale (MSS) was designed to assess two theoretical dimensions of help-seeking stigma (public and self), specifically among service members. The goal of the current study was to further examine the validity of the MSS among 347 active duty service members. Examination of unidimensional, two-factor, and bifactor models revealed that a bifactor model, with a general (overall stigma), two specific factors (public and self-stigma), and one method factor (accounting for negatively worded items) provided the best fit to the data. Ancillary reliability analyses also supported the MSS measuring a broad stigma factor associated with seeking mental health care in the military. Subsequent model analyses showed that the MSS was associated with other stigma-related constructs. Overall, findings suggest that the MSS is a reliable and validated scale that can be used to assess military help-seeking stigma and to evaluate results of programs designed to reduce stigma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Student retention is a critical issue for higher education institutions. This study investigates the motivation of marketing student retention in the United States. The study was conducted by exploring the underlying personal values that drive student retention through the means-end chain (MEC) laddering approach. A total of 55 usable student comments were gathered from two mid-sized (1 public, 1 private) institutions and analyzed using MEC. The findings show that marketing student retention was influenced by hedonism, power, achievement, and self-direction and, to a lesser extent, by the other-regarding value of benevolence. In addition, the hierarchical value map shows the importance of the industry category-building marketing courses to emphasize the industry and marketing environment. It must be recognized, however, that the strength of the industry category depends on how universities maintain their brand image and that image's congruency with students' personal values. Finally, the study results revealed that marketing course factors (e.g., course content and course excitement) and job security are fundamental attributes that enhance student retention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical activity (PA) improves quality of life and prevents chronic disease, yet many adults are inactive. Planning with health care providers in the form of exercise "prescriptions" may increase PA, but the role of individual psychosocial factors within exercise prescription programs is not well understood. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to describe the role of self-regulation strategies (e.g., goal setting, self-monitoring, reinforcements) in PA behavior change within the context of an exercise prescription program. Patients at a large, Federally Qualified Health Center with an on-site exercise facility (ie, "Wellness Center") referral were eligible to exercise with a personal fitness advisor. Self-reported PA and use of 15 self-regulation strategies were measured via survey at two time points and merged with electronic health records and attendance data. Patients (n = 151) were, on average, 50.3 ± 13.3 years and mostly female (76.8%). Almost one-third (30.5%) were Hispanic/Latino, 48.3% were non-Hispanic Black, and 20.5% were non-Hispanic white. Participants completed 10.7 ± 12.0 in-person exercise sessions with a fitness advisor. Between baseline and follow-up, the self-regulation strategies that had the largest change in frequency over time were keeping track of PA (p < 0.001), thinking about surroundings (p < 0.001), rewarding yourself for PA (p < 0.001), making PA more enjoyable (p < 0.001), setting goals (p < 0.001), and trying different kinds of PA (p < 0.001). Among exercise prescription program participants, the total self-regulation strategies score was significantly associated with physical activity at follow-up (p = 0.04). Leveraging self-regulatory skill-building activities within the context of exercise prescription programs in clinical settings may provide a personalized and multicomponent approach to PA promotion. Self-regulation strategy training for fitness advisors and/or health care providers has great potential for supporting long-term health behaviors like PA for managing chronic disease among underserved patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a commonly occurring, yet historically poorly understood, mental health concern among post-secondary students. The present study sought to identify the current knowledge needs of university stakeholders to inform training efforts around effective NSSI response and student support on university campuses. Participants were 1,762 university students, staff, and student-staff (77% female) from seven universities in Canada, the USA, New Zealand, and Australia. Participants completed an online survey about their attitudes and knowledge of both general mental health and NSSI. University stakeholders reported significantly greater stigma toward NSSI than mental illness in general. Student-staff reported greater perceived knowledge and comfort, and demonstrated greater knowledge of NSSI, than students and staff. Findings underscore the need for additional training and resources to reduce stigma and increase knowledge about NSSI on university campuses internationally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessing two independent samples of adolescents in military families in the United States who recently experienced parental separation (N = 573; N = 186), this study sought to identify adolescent mental health profiles indexed on multiple indicators. In other words, we asked how military adolescents fare after parental separation in terms of mental health indicators. Proximal family processes (family cohesion, conflict, and marital adjustment) were also examined in relation to mental health profiles as well as core adolescent outcomes, self-rated health, and school enjoyment. In both samples, three profiles emerged identifying similar structures of mental health profiles. Two-thirds of adolescents were in the lowest risk mental health group. Poor family cohesion and greater conflict were associated with the moderate and highest risk groups. The lowest risk group reported better health and greater school enjoyment. Family nurses and other health care professionals are encouraged to inquire about military connectedness, structural changes occurring within the family system, and family processes in relation to adolescent well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parents use digital-specific strategies to mitigate online risks and augment online benefits of digital technology in their children's lives. The goal of this study was to develop and validate a measure of parents' attitudes about mediation of digital technology. An internet-based survey was administered to 460 parents of children and adolescents in the United States. Exploratory bifactor analysis revealed one general factor, reflecting general parenting attitudes, and four digital-specific factors: discursive mediation, restrictive mediation and monitoring, participatory mediation, and mediation by modeling. Confirmatory factor analysis supported a bifactor model of the Digital Parental Mediation Attitudes Scale (DPMAS); the general factor explained shared variance related to parenting style and skills in general, while the mediation factors represented digital-specific attitudes. Construct validity was evidenced in differential associations between mediation factors and parenting efficacy, influence, child age, and parent and child technology use patterns. Prior State of Knowledge: Research exploring the effectiveness of digital parenting strategies (e.g. discursive and restrictive mediation) has not conceptualized or measured these constructs consistently. This limits the extent to which scholars, policy makers, and parents can draw conclusions about the efficacy of digital parental mediation. Novel Contributions: To facilitate a coherent evidence base about digital parenting, the current study developed and validated a quantitative measure of US parents' attitudes about mediation related to digital and social technologies using structural equation modeling. Practical Implications: The Digital Parenting Mediation Attitude Scale (DPMAS) assess parents' attitudes across four dimensions (discursive, restrictive/monitoring, participatory, modeling) and can assist in the development and evaluation of interventions to support youth and families in a dynamic and rapidly evolving technological environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: There are approximately 1 million adults in the United States with multiple sclerosis (MS). Persons with MS are interested in diet as a second-line therapy for improving MS symptoms and disease progression. Examination of desired resources regarding diet among persons with MS is necessary for supporting behavior change. METHODS: Twenty-five adults with MS completed 1-on-1, online semistructured interviews. An inductive, 6-phase, semantic thematic analysis was applied to identify themes associated with participant preferences for dietary behavior change. RESULTS: The research team crafted 4 key themes from the data that encompassed participants' desired resources for dietary behavior change. Theme 1, MS-specific evidence, involved the need for clear information about the impact of diet regimens or specific foods on MS. Theme 2, dietary guidelines, was related to guidelines provided by a reliable source such as a registered dietitian. Theme 3, behavioral supports, underscored the need for support for behavior change, including accountability, self-monitoring, motivation, habituation, and incremental changes. Theme 4, diet resources, highlighted tangible resources for supporting dietary change, including recipes, food lists, meal services, or games. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides a foundation for guiding dietary interventions for persons with MS that incorporates their needs and preferences and could improve their overall health. Such dietary change can be facilitated by theory-based behavioral interventions that incorporate behavior change techniques such as self-monitoring and goal setting for supporting behavior change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines maternal practices of immigrant Muslim mothers in the United States to understand how they share their health values with their American Muslim adolescent daughters. The maternal practices were studied in the context of each family's and especially the mother's religious and cultural values. Further, the influence of religion, culture of origin and acculturation on immigrant Muslim mothers' values and thus maternal practices in the United States was examined. Using a criterion sampling strategy, 11 immigrant Muslim mothers and their American Muslim adolescent daughters who were born and raised in the United States were interviewed. The interviews were transcribed verbatim, coded, and analysed using a phenomenological approach. Mothers in this study showed that their health values were shaped by Islam, culture origin and the acculturation factor. Mothers shared health values with their adolescent daughters by being available, monitoring their health behaviours, engaging in healthy communication with them, and modelling healthy behaviours. Understanding these maternal factors will help create effective health education to support immigrant Muslim mothers serve as a protective factor for their adolescent daughters, help them make healthy choices, and follow healthy behaviours within Muslim communities in the United States. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores gratitude as a multidimensional and work-specific construct. Utilizing a sample of 625 employees from a variety of positions in a medium-sized school district in the United States, we developed and evaluated a new measure, namely the Work Gratitude Scale (WGS), which encompasses recognized conative (intentional), cognitive, affective, and social aspects of gratitude. A systematic, six-phased approach through structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to explore and confirm the factorial structure, internal consistency, measurement invariance, concurrent, convergent, and discriminant validity of the WGS. The results supported a 10-item measure with three dimensions: "grateful appraisals" (three items), "gratitude toward others" (four items), and "intentional attitude of gratitude" (three items). Thereafter, first-order, second-order, and bifactor confirmatory models were estimated and compared. Work gratitude was found to be best described by a second-order construct with three underlying first-order dimensions. Measurement invariance was supported in relation to gender. Concurrent validity was supported in relation to two existing dispositional gratitude scales, namely the Gratitude Questionnaire and the Gratitude, Resentment, and Appreciation Scale (GRAT). Convergent validity was supported in relation to the Core Self-Evaluations Scale (CSES) and the Psychological Capital Questionnaire. Discriminant validity was supported in relation to various demographic factors such as age, gender, occupation, and tenure. The findings support the WGS as a multidimensional measure that can be used in practice to measure overall work-related gratitude and to track the effectiveness of gratitude-related workplace interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The expanding population of older adults with multiple sclerosis (MS) likely experiences many of the same benefits of physical activity (PA) as younger and middle-aged adults with MS. However, participation in PA is exceedingly low in this segment of the MS population. This study examined variables from social cognitive theory (SCT) as correlates of PA in older adults with MS to inform the subsequent development of behavioral interventions. Methods: Older adults with MS (≥60 years of age, N = 180) completed an online survey including demographic and clinical characteristics, SCT variables (exercise self-efficacy, exercise goal setting, social support, and outcome expectations), and PA (total PA [TPA] and moderate-to-vigorous PA [MVPA]). Results: Bivariate correlation analyses indicated that all SCT variables were significantly associated with TPA and MVPA (all P ≤ .001). Hierarchical linear regression analyses indicated that disability status was a significant correlate of TPA ( β = --0.48, R2 = 0.23) and MVPA ( β = --0.44, R2 = 0.19) in step 1; disability and self-efficacy were significant correlates of TPA (disability β = --0.20, self-efficacy β = 0.59, R2 = 0.50) and MVPA (disability β = --0.16, self-efficacy β = 0.60, R2 = 0.47) in step 2; and disability, self-efficacy, and exercise goal setting were significant correlates of TPA (disability β = --0.21, self-efficacy β = 0.50, exercise goal setting β = 0.14, R2 = 0.55) and MVPA (disability β = --0.17, self-efficacy β = 0.51, exercise goal setting β = 0.15, R2 = 0.51) in step 3. Conclusions: These results suggest that behavioral interventions focusing on self-efficacy and exercise goal setting as targets from SCT may be appropriate for increasing PA in older adults with MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many women do not engage in regular physical activity and women's physical activity declines over the life cycle. The present study examines the association of regular leisure-time physical activity with affective experience among 881 middle-aged and older women from the National Survey of Midlife Development in the United States. In multiple linear regression and structural equation analyses, a higher level of leisure-time physical activity was related to more high-arousal and low-arousal positive affect and less high-arousal and low-arousal negative affect. Appreciating positive affective responses associated with physical activity can help to motivate women to engage in regular leisure-time physical activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Given the unequal distribution of physical activity (PA) opportunities across middle schools, alternative options for promoting it should be explored. Faith-based schools are positioned to offer religious-themed PA interventions, yet few have been reported. We replicated previous research by investigating the effects of the Physical Activity for Lent (PAL) program on change in step count (ΔPA) and its associations with religiosity, enjoyment, and motivation (four subscales). Method: Over the 6-week Lenten season, three Catholic middle schools' students (n = 128) participated in a randomly allocated controlled crossover trial of a pedometer-based virtual journey that followed Jesus's life path. We used the Reliable Change Index (RCI), general linear mixed models, and logistic regression to identify changes (pre- to post-Lent) in the independent variables, and their association with ΔPA overall and of being in the highest ΔPA tertile. Results: Between 11.6% (religiosity) and 34.7% (external regulation) of participants' scores changed. School (School 3 > Schools 1 and 2 by ~2,400 steps/day, p < .001) and grade (6th grade > 7th and 8th grades by ~2,500 steps/day, p < .001) - but not religiosity, enjoyment, or motivation - were significant predictors of ΔPA. As RCI for intrinsic motivation and identified regulation increased, students were more (OR = 2.49) and less (OR = 0.74) likely, respectively, to be in the high ΔPA tertile. Conclusion: Desirable ΔPA was situational (i.e., school, grade) and highest ΔPA tertile was associated with autonomous motivation. Faith-based PA interventions may need to include additional components to realize even greater gains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one of the most common neurological disorders in the world, and it is increasing in incidence and prevalence in the United States. OBJECTIVE: This article describes the medical, psychosocial, and vocational aspects of MS. Current information regarding the diagnosis and treatment of MS is presented. The authors review recent research on the impact of MS on health, function, employment, and community participation. CONCLUSION: Important considerations for providing responsive vocational rehabilitation services to people with MS are thoroughly discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bisexual individuals face health disparities compared to heterosexual and other sexual minority individuals. Romantic partnership status is an underexplored protective factor of bisexual health, despite literature indicating romantic partnership generally relates to health advantages. Using U.S. population-level data (N = 3,272), we conducted the first multidomain test of partnership–health associations among bisexual cisgender individuals. We first ran bivariate logistic regressions in the aggregated sample, testing partnership status as a predictor of each health outcome. We then repeated the analysis in groups disaggregated by sex. Partnership related to more health advantages than disadvantages, overall. In the aggregated sample, partnership related to lower likelihood of recent poor mental health. Partnered bisexual men reported significantly lower heart disease prevalence and less heavy drinking than single men. Partnered bisexual women reported significantly higher likelihood of recent exercise than single women. Findings encourage continued and expanded population-level data collection on sexual orientation, including adding items about partners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An estimated 40 million adults in the United States have been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, making it the most common psychiatric disorder in the country. Although the data are conflicting and limited, engaging in or increasing exercise has been proposed for the management of anxiety and other mental health disorders. The purpose of this study was to determine if there is a correlation between pre-race anxiety and running experience, sex, body mass index, age, and mental health history using the validated Generalized Anxiety Disorder 2-Item screening tool for anxiety. This study was a prospective trial of 403 adult runners who were scheduled to participate in a 5 K, 10 K, half marathon, or full marathon race. Each participant completed a survey consisting of epidemiologic variables and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 2-Item screening tool. Results revealed that the runners with more experience and increased mileage demonstrated a decrease in reported worrying on a daily to near-daily basis; whether this finding correlates with a decreased risk of developing an anxiety disorder has yet to be determined. Based on our findings, exercise as a prescription for the treatment and possibly prevention of anxiety should be considered., (© 2021. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

The Psychological Sense of School Membership (PSSM) scale has been used for more than 20 years to measure students' sense of school belonging, yet its psychometric properties have had limited examination with pre-adolescent children. This study investigated the utility and psychometrics of the PSSM in three primary school samples from the United States, China, and the United Kingdom. Exploratory factor analysis revealed good fit for a unidimensional factor structure in the US sample, which was subsequently confirmed in all three samples. Partial invariance across all three samples and full invariance across pairwise samples (United States and United Kingdom; United Kingdom and China) was found. Path analyses revealed significant positive relations of the PSSM total belonging score with gratitude and prosocial behavior, and significant negative relations with symptoms of distress. Future directions and implications are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To quantify physical activity (PA) levels in people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) using objective measurement and to establish using a meta‐analytical approach if pwMS are less active than the general population. A systematic search of eight databases was conducted. Cohort and intervention studies which included an objective measure of PA were included. Objective PA outputs of steps per day and minutes of moderate‐vigorous activity (MVPA) per day were extracted from the MS studies and the published NHANES dataset. Meta‐analysis was used to compare the differences between the groups for these parametric outcomes. A general population sample from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES) in the United States of America was used as a comparative group. The systematic search resulted in 32 papers (n = 2 randomized control trials, n = 30 cohort studies). A total of 3 762 pwMS were included. The sample was largely female (n = 3 118, 82.8%) and ambulatory with/without use of an aid (n = 31 studies). There were significant differences between the MS and the published NHANES comparative group with respect to 1) steps per day [mean difference: −3845 (−4120.17, −3569.83), P < .0001, n = 10 studies] and 2) minutes of MVPA per day [mean difference: 9.00 (−12.5, −5.4), P < .0001, n = 3 studies], indicating pwMS are less physically active than the NHANES sample. Results suggest that pwMS are less physically active than a general population across PA outputs of steps per day and minutes of MVPA per day. There is a need to increase PA levels among pwMS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Firefighters’ self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) protects the respiratory system during firefighting but increases the physiological burden. Extended duration SCBA (>30 min) have increased air supply, potentially increasing the duration of firefighting work cycles. To examine the effects of SCBA configuration and work cycle (length and rest), 30 firefighters completed seven trials using different SCBA and one or two bouts of simulated firefighting following work cycles common in the United States. Heart rate, core temperature, oxygen consumption, work output and self-reported perceptions were recorded during all activities. Varying SCBA resulted in few differences in these parameters. However, during a second bout, work output significantly declined while heart rates and core temperatures were elevated relative to a single bout. Thirty seven per cent of the subjects were unable to complete the second bout in at least one of the two-bout conditions. These firefighters had lower fitness and higher body mass than those who completed all assigned tasks. Practitioner Summary: The effects of extended duration SCBA and work/rest cycles on physiological parameters and work output have not been examined. Cylinder size had minimal effects, but extended work cycles with no rest resulted in increased physiological strain and decreased work output. This effect was more pronounced in firefighters with lower fitness. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Objective: The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) has not been fully validated as a depression screening scale among Black adolescents. This study examines the psychometric properties of the CES-D as applied to Black adolescents, seeking to understand the unique way in which Black adolescents express their depression symptoms. Method: We hypothesized that the expression and factor structure of depressive symptoms measured by CES-D would be different when applied to Black adolescents. Black adolescents (N 5 782) ages 11-21 were recruited from 9 urban public housing developments in 4 large U.S. cities. Confirmatory factor analysis and exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM) were used to compare the fit of competing models. Convergent validity of the CES-D was examined via associations with gender, age, and suicidal ideation in the ESEM model. Results: Instead of the original 4-factor structure of the CES-D, a 2-factor ESEM model demonstrated satisfactory fit to our data (CFI 5 0.95, TLI 5 0.93, RMSEA 5 0.04). Compared with females, Black males were less likely to endorse positive affect items of the CES-D (r5 20.13, p < 0.01). Conclusions: Conceptualizations of depression among Black adolescents may differ from any other populations previously studied. Clinicians should assess the unique expression of depression among Black youth when developing treatment plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Individuals with visual impairments tend to spend less time participating in physical activity and more time engaging in sedentary behaviors than their typically developing peers. The purpose of this study was to examine social cognitive theory-based predictors of physical activity and sedentary behavior for adults with visual impairments. Ninety-two participants, recruited from two visual impairment-related organizations in the United States (Women = 50; Men = 42; ages 18-77 [ Mage = 46.88, SD = 13.91]), completed three questionnaires. Two-way ANOVAs examined differences across sex and vision; hierarchical multiple regression analyses evaluated factors predicting total metabolic equivalent minutes and sitting time. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses revealed that social support significantly predicted total metabolic equivalent minutes while self-regulation predicted sitting time. Age was not predictive of either dependent variable; vision predicted total metabolic equivalent minutes but not sitting time; sex was a significant factor for sitting not total metabolic equivalent minutes. Visual impairment predicted metabolic equivalent minutes but not sitting time. This study provides the first empirical evidence explaining social cognitive theory constructs as predictors of physical activity and sedentary behavior among adults with visual impairments. These results provide a basis for researchers and practitioners to utilize when conceptualizing, implementing, and evaluating future physical activity interventions focusing on this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Individuals experiencing a highly caring, task-involving, and low ego-involving exercise climate have reported greater ownership in exercise class and empowerment to exercise in general.Purpose: This study examined the relationship between ownership and empowerment in exercise, with 2 context-specific outcomes, satisfaction with physical education (PE) and physical activity, respectively. Given the mission of PE to foster individuals' lifelong physical activity habit, the perceptions of high school students were collected for this study. Ownership in exercise was hypothesized to be significantly, positively correlated with students reporting satisfaction in PE more than their satisfaction in physical activity, whereas empowerment in exercise was hypothesized to be more strongly, positively correlated with students' physical activity satisfaction. A second purpose of this study was to test the measurement quality of the updated Empowerment in Exercise Scale (EES; now 13 items).Method: High school students (N = 502, 43% female) in a Midwestern U.S. school district completed a survey.Results: Confirmatory factor analysis supported the internal measurement structure of the EES (λ = .62-.91; McDonald's omega = .89) across student gender (strong invariance). Additionally, the structural equation modeling analysis revealed only 1 parameter moderated by the students' gender (latent mean of ownership). The hypotheses were supported, such that ownership in exercise was more strongly correlated with PE satisfaction (r = .87) and empowerment in exercise had a stronger correlation with physical activity satisfaction (r = .92).Conclusion: These results support the beneficial effect a satisfying experience in PE can have on students' satisfaction with physical activity outside of school. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of a Perceived Benefits Scale, a Perceived Barriers Scale, and a Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale with data from a group randomized controlled trial (RCT) and a test–retest study with 1-week interval. In the group RCT at baseline and Week 17, 1,012 fifth- to eighth-grade girls completed an iPad-delivered survey and wore 7-day accelerometers measuring moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). In the test–retest study, 91 fifth- to seventh-grade girls completed the iPad-delivered survey at Times 1 and 2. Benefits, barriers, and enjoyment scales had Cronbach’s αs of .75, .86, and .78 and test–retest reliability of .83, .88, and .79, respectively. Benefits Scale had a two-factor structure (physical and psychosocial benefits), while the remaining two had a one-factor structure indicating construct validity. Barriers (r = −.16) and enjoyment (r = .17) were correlated with MVPA indicating concurrent validity. Baseline MVPA and psychosocial benefits positively, while physical benefits negatively, predicted MVPA at Week 17 indicating predictive validity. The measures demonstrated satisfactory psychometric properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this research was to assess the association between university-based instructional physical activity (PA) courses and changes in overall PA levels and negative mood and their interrelations. The study also sought to determine the amount of change in PA required to significantly improve mood in course enrollees.Method: Participants were university students initially completing PA below the level recommended for health who were either presently enrolled in an elective instructional PA course (treatment group, n = 52, 69% female) or not presently enrolled in such a course (comparison group, n = 32, 69% female). Validated surveys assessed volumes of PA completed per week and overall negative mood from baseline to course end. Mediation analyses assessed group effects on mood through PA changes and reciprocal relations between PA and mood changes.Results: There was a significantly greater increase in PA and significantly more reduction in negative mood in the treatment group. Change in PA completely mediated the relationship between group and change in negative mood, and change in mood completely mediated the relationship between group and PA. These findings indicated a reciprocal, mutually reinforcing relationship between changes in PA and mood. An increase in PA of at least 2 days/week was associated with a significant reduction in negative mood, with no greater effect for more increase.Conclusions: Results provided an improved understanding of the effects of university-based instructional PA courses and how they might be leveraged to improve students' mental health and possibly contribute to their academic success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Increasing physical activity among adolescents is a public health priority. Because people are motivated to engage in activities that make them feel good, this study examined predictors of adolescents' feelings during exercise.Method: During the 1st semester of the school year, we assessed 6th-grade students' (N = 136) cognitive appraisals of the importance of exercise. Participants also reported their affect during a cardiovascular fitness test and recalled their affect during the fitness test later that semester. During the 2nd semester, the same participants rated their affect during a moderate-intensity exercise task.Results: Affect reported during the moderate-intensity exercise task was predicted by cognitive appraisals of the importance of exercise and by misremembering affect during the fitness test as more positive than it actually was. This memory bias mediated the association between appraising exercise as important and experiencing a positive change in affect during the moderate-intensity exercise task.Conclusion: These findings highlight the roles of both cognitive appraisals and memory as factors that may influence affect during exercise. Future work should explore whether affect during exercise can be modified by targeting appraisals and memories related to exercise experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A better understanding of the types and contexts of activities that young adolescents participate in during their leisure time is needed in order to foster the early development of positive leisure behaviors and recreation choices that can influence maintenance of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) throughout life. The purpose of this study was to examine differences in intention to participate and current participation in competitive and noncompetitive forms of LTPA among young adolescents by gender and socioeconomic status. The results are intended to inform community recreation professionals as they often have responsibility for making programmatic decisions that directly influence LTPA. Intention and current participation in competitive and noncompetitive LTPA was assessed in a rural sample of 838 young adolescents aged 10-14 years through a self-administered questionnaire. Among all participants, intention to participate in noncompetitive LTPA and competitive LTPA were found to be significant predictors of current participation in each respective form of LTPA. Boys participated in both forms of LTPA more often than girls; however, no statistically significant difference was found among boys between either their intention to participate in noncompetitive and competitive LTPA or current participation in noncompetitive and competitive LTPA. Among girls, intention to participate in noncompetitive LTPA was significantly greater than intention to participate in competitive LTPA and current participation in noncompetitive LTPA was significantly greater than current participation in competitive LTPA. Among low-income youth, no statistically significant difference was found between noncompetitive and competitive LTPA in either intention or current participation. The study results point to the ongoing gender disparity that exists in LTPA participation and provide further context to competitive and noncompetitive recreation choices for how leisure time is spent. The results indicate that community recreation agencies should be sure their recreation programs include noncompetitive program choices designed specifically to meet girls' interests, but to also consider the value of offering a diverse range of noncompetitive and competitive programming for all youth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Interpreting change scores is challenging when patients' global rating of change (GRC) scores contradict their observed change scores. We examine appraisal processes associated with having GRC-observed change contradictions.Methods: This secondary analysis of longitudinal multiple sclerosis (MS) registry data examined predictors of GRC scores in the whole sample (n = 858). Logistic modeling then examined predictors of membership in one of two paradoxical subgroups (n = 525): (a) Worsened GRC with unchanged observed Rand-12 Mental Component scores (MCS) (Symptom-Maximizers, n = 171) versus no change GRC among stable MCS subsample; and (b) same GRC with declined observed MCS scores (Symptom-Minimizers, n = 84) versus declining GRC among declining MCS subsample. Independent variables were cognitive appraisal processes from the Quality of Life (QOL) Appraisal Profile.Results: GRC scores were more strongly associated with appraisal processes than with change in patient-reported outcomes (PROs) (R 2 = 11 and 2 %, respectively). Symptom-Maximizers tended to focus on MS-related experiences and emphasize big changes; over time, they decreasingly defined QOL in terms of independence, increasingly focused on their MS, and increasingly compared themselves to doctor's predictions (Pseudo R 2 = 0.20). In contrast, Symptom-Minimizers tended not to recall recent episodes; over time, they focused increasingly on goals related to living situation and emphasized long-term concerns (Pseudo R 2 = 0.25).Conclusions: Appraisal explains more variance in GRC scores than do changes in PROs. People whose GRC assessment contradicts their observed change can be characterized by distinct cognitive appraisal processes reflecting response shift. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine social and environmental factors that affect moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in mid‐adolescent Hispanic females. Design and Sample: Secondary data analysis to examine social and environmental level factors related to MVPA levels in (n = 897) mid‐adolescent Hispanic females. Measures: Data were retrieved from the National Survey of Children's Health (2011/12). Logistic regression was used to estimate associations for factors with MVPA. Results: Significant mid‐adolescent predictors were English speaking, OR 1.64 (95% CI, 1.03–2.61); parental attendance of activities, OR 0.50 (95% CI, 0.31–0.81); peer support, OR 2.74 (95% CI, 1.75–4.29); supportive neighborhood, OR 1.52 (95% CI, 1.03–2.32); and safe school environment, OR 1.67 (95% CI, 1.01–2.74). Conclusion: Findings highlight the need for the development of age and culturally appropriate interventions to aid the improvement of participation levels in MVPA among the Latina adolescent population. Additionally, findings suggest recommendations for policy and future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to examine urban African American girls' participation in physical education and its association with academic performance. One hundred eighty four participants completed questionnaires assessing moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and learning engagement in physical education while their academic performance was based on individual grades in core academic classes. Quantitative analyses revealed that physical education played a critical role in enhancing physical activity involvement, and vigorous physical activity and learning engagement were significant predictors of academic performance. Findings suggest that besides the contribution to health promotion, African American girls' participation in physical education may facilitate academic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To characterize physical activity patterns among people with disabilities using data from a nationally representative health survey. Method: Individual-level data came from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System 2011 survey. Pearson's chi-squared tests were conducted to assess the difference in the proportion distribution of individual characteristics between each of the 4 disability categories and the population without disability. Conditional on their statistical significance, 2 sample proportion tests were performed on individual demographics including gender, age group, and race/ethnicity. Results: Compared to people without disabilities, the prevalence of physical inactivity was substantially higher among people with disabilities. Walking and gardening were the most common physical activities among people with disabilities. Physical activity patterns varied significantly across gender, age, race/ethnicity, and disability categories. Conclusion: Ecological interventions to promote physical activity engagement in people with disabilities should be mindful of the feasibility, acceptability, and accessibility for this specific and particularly vulnerable population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) are less physically active than the general population, but limited data on objective physical activity patterns in adults with DS are available., Methods: Free-living physical activity was measured by waist-worn accelerometry in adults with DS from 2018 to 2020. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, bivariate and regression analyses., Results: Fifty-two subjects provided valid accelerometer data, with 46% male and a majority (75%) overweight/obese. Median (± standard deviation) daily sedentary time was 393.5 ± 216.6 min, light activity was 150.7 ± 85.5 min, moderate activity was 6.3 ± 13.5 min, and vigorous activity was 0 ± 9.8 min. Subjects had 10.3 ± 4.8 sedentary bouts per day lasting on average 30.7 ± 62.0 min. Median daily step count was 3,050 ± 1,988. Adults living alone had more steps and light physical activity in adjusted analyses., Conclusion: Adults with DS engage in little health-enhancing physical activity and do not meet current physical activity recommendations in the United States., (© 2020 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Worldwide the number of people over age of 60 years is rapidly increasing. Many communities are challenged to make their communities more walkable and age friendly. Addressing the trend, this study investigated two major metropolitan regions' policies regarding livability and examined how two case study housing sites practiced walkability for seniors in the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area in Minnesota, the United States, and the Vancouver Metropolitan Area in British Columbia, Canada. Analyses show that in the Canadian case, the policy was explicitly age-friendly requiring senior citizen's involvement and proximity to places for seniors' activities in planning activities and implementation. In contrast, the US case focused on transit-oriented development and did not specifically require age-friendly practices. Walkability of a specific multifamily housing site in each case was evaluated to identify the impacts of the livable communities legislation. Analyses of the site evaluations found substantial differences in available destinations that encourage walking among seniors. The conclusion provides suggestions for ways that cities and their urban regions can be made more sustainable and livable as the number of elderly residents increases over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual dysfunction (SD) is a common symptom in multiple sclerosis (MS). As body image concerns may be related to SD, this study focused on predictors of body image related SD in a sample of MS patients. To evaluate correlates of body image related SD, including sociodemographics, mental health, and select illness variables including help-seeking behaviors for sexual problems, time since MS diagnosis, and self-reported disability status. This study utilized de-identified, archived data from a MS patient registry, the North American Research Committee on Multiple Sclerosis (NARCOMS). The sample consisted of 4,267 respondents to the NARCOMS questionnaire, which included a reliable and valid instrument for assessing SD. People who had higher scores on body image related SD were less educated, female, with longer disease duration and greater disability. They reported poorer mental health and seeking treatment for sexual problems less frequently. In the final regression model, age, employment status, and race were not significantly related to body image related SD in MS. The results of the study offer evidence that body image related SD in MS is a complex, multi-factorial phenomenon that is related to a variety of demographic, mental health, and disease related variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To identify factors that facilitate adherence to physical activity among employed women. Methods: Participants were 103 employed women (Mean 44.4 years ±11.8). Measures included physical activity by accelerometry, location by global positioning systems, and psychosocial constructs, perception of worksite policies and the built environment by questionnaire. Results: Meeting physical activity recommendations was significantly associated with use of the built environment, self-regulation, perception of higher land-use mix diversity, and perception of lower infrastructure and safety for walking. Perception of worksite policies, self-efficacy, and social support were not associated with meeting recommendations. Conclusions: The findings provide evidence that working women's physical activity behavior is influenced by both psychosocial and environmental factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reports a cross-national study of developmental change in health-enhancing behavior—healthy eating and regular exercise—among adolescents in China and the United States. The application of a conceptual framework comprising psychosocial and behavioral protective and risk factors—both proximal and distal and at both the individual and social contextual level—is shown to provide a substantial account of variation in change in those behaviors over a 2-year interval. The explanatory account has generality across gender, the 3 grade cohorts, and most importantly, across the 2 markedly diverse societies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The study examined social-cognitive correlates of physical activity in a multi-ethnic cohort of girls from six regions of the United States who participated in the Trial of Activity for Adolescent Girls during their 6th and 8th grade school years. Methods Girls completed validated questionnaires and wore accelerometers that measured weekly physical activity in the spring of 2002 and 2005. Results In 8th grade, self-efficacy and perceived social support had indirect relations with physical activity mediated through perceived barriers, which was inversely related to physical activity. Self-efficacy also had a direct relation with physical activity. Conclusions Correlations were smaller than those obtained in studies that measured physical activity by self-reports, suggesting that previous estimates were inflated by common method artifact. Nonetheless, physical activity trials among girls during early adolescence might focus on increasing self-efficacy for overcoming barriers to physical activity and on ways by which perceived barriers can otherwise be reduced. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Objective The factorial validity and measurement equivalence/invariance of scales used to measure social-cognitive correlates of physical activity among adolescent girls were examined. Methods Confirmatory factor analysis was applied to questionnaire responses obtained from a multi-ethnic sample (N = 4885) of middle-school girls from six regions of the United States. A cohort of 1893 girls completed the scales in both sixth and eighth grades, allowing longitudinal analysis. Results Theoretically and statistically sound models were developed for each scale, supporting the factorial validity of the scales in all groups. Multi-group and longitudinal invariance was confirmed across race/ethnicity groups, age within grade, BMI categories, and the 2-year period between grades. Conclusions The scores from the scales provide valid assessments of social-cognitive variables that are putative mediators or moderators of change in physical activity. The revised scales can be used in observational studies of change or interventions designed to increase physical activity among girls during early adolescence. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This 1-year longitudinal study investigated the effects of adolescents' depressed mood on perceived parental and peer warmth during the transition to young adulthood. We hypothesized that ethnicity would moderate such effects. As part of a larger study, 511 adolescents (154 European, 205 Hispanic, and 152 Asian Americans) participated in this research. They were surveyed shortly before their high school graduation and again 1 year later. Analyses based on 2-wave cross-lagged models showed that higher levels of initial depressive symptoms predicted lower levels of subsequent perceived parental and peer warmth for European Americans. For Asian Americans, higher initial depressed mood was significantly associated with lower levels of perceived peer warmth and was marginally associated with lower levels of parental warmth. In contrast, the erosion of parental and peer warmth was not evident for Hispanic Americans. The role of culture in the erosion of parental and peer warmth during life transitions was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research examines the impact of gender on the association between sport participation and students' educational opportunities and outcomes by comparing African American male and female eighth graders, including student background and school demographic and organization characteristics. Unlike previous studies it also investigates the link between interscholastic and intramural athletic participation and "academic resilience" for African American eight-grade females and males using educational plans, peer status, and academic investments as indicators of academic attachment. Data for these analyses are drawn from the base year of the National Education Longitudinal Study of 1988 (NELS, 99) conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics. These data offer evidence that athletic participation can and often does have a positive impact on student motivation and engagement, and that these positive benefits accrue to both male and female athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]