Examining an Integrative Model of Physical Activity and Healthy Eating Self-Perceptions and Behaviors Among Adolescents

PurposeThis study tested a comprehensive model of physical activity and healthy eating behavior.MethodsA sample of older adolescents (boys n = 206, girls n = 326) volunteered to complete a scientifically supported questionnaire assessing physical activity and healthy eating perceptions of competence, values, and behaviors once during class time.ResultsConfirmatory factor analysis suggested the data fit the model well. Tests of group differences supported factorial invariance, and revealed higher physical activity perceptions of competence, value, and behavior as well as lower healthy diet value and behavior for adolescent boys compared with girls. Perceptions of competence for healthy diet were also higher among boys. Path modeling demonstrated a good model fit, whereby behavior-specific perceptions of competence and values were significant correlates of physical activity for the total sample and subsamples of boys and girls (R2 = .41–.53). Perceptions of competence and values were also significant correlates of healthy diet for the total sample (R2 = .34) and boys (R2 = .42). Subjective values were significant correlates of healthy diet for girls (R2 = .30). Structural invariance suggested that the models were not significantly different for adolescent boys and girls.ConclusionsThese results demonstrate the saliency of the comprehensive model in understanding physical activity and healthy eating behaviors among older adolescents. Further tests of the model are needed to advance theory exploring both physical activity and healthy eating behaviors, and to inform intervention strategies targeting adolescent health.