A latent growth model of adolescent physical activity as a function of depressive symptoms

BackgroundResearch indicates a possible relationship between adolescent depressive symptoms and physical activity, yet few studies have examined whether trajectories of adolescent physical activity differ among adolescents with and without elevated depressive symptoms.PurposeThis study documented change in physical activity from ages 12–17 years among youth with and without elevated depressive symptoms, and examined the influences of key family, physiological, and demographic covariates on activity patterns.MethodsData were from 371 youth. The sample was 50% female; 76% White, 12% African American, 4% Hispanic, 2% Asian, 2% American Indian, and 4% other or mixed races. Mean age was 12.05 years (SD = 1.63) at Time 1. Latent growth curve modeling (LGM), a cohort-sequential design, and a multiple-group design by level of depressive symptoms were employed.ResultsAdolescent physical activity declined significantly from ages 12–17 for those with and without elevated depressive symptoms. Adolescents with elevated symptoms had lower initial levels of physical activity than individuals without. For youth with low depressive symptoms, male sex and parental support of physical activity were related to higher initial levels of physical activity. For youth with elevated depressive symptoms, male sex, being White, and parental support were related to higher initial levels of physical activity. Additionally, for both groups, increases in parent physical activity were related to less of a decline in adolescent physical activity trajectories.ConclusionsFindings highlight the importance of parental support in promoting physical activity among adolescents with and without elevated depressive symptoms.

► This was one of few studies to relate adolescent depression and physical activity.
► Physical activity declined from ages 12–17 regardless of depression levels.
► Increases in parent physical activity related to less decline in adolescent physical activity.
► Adolescents with more depressive symptoms had lower initial physical activity.
► Parental support of physical activity was associated with physical activity in youth.