Adolescents’ perceptions of factors promoting physical activity participation

Abstract

Despite the known benefits of physical activity, adolescents worldwide do not adequately engage in sufficient physical activity levels. Limited empirical evidence exists on the role of enabling factors of PA among adolescents and the role of parental involvement. Therefore, the importance of understanding adolescent health behaviour has become a global health concern. The objective of this study was to analyse the barriers and facilitators of PA participation among adolescents. Three focus group discussions (45-90 minutes each) were held with a group of South African learners (n=35), purposively sampled from Metro South education district in Mitchell’s Plain, Cape Town. The focus groups discussions explored the adolescents’ perceptions on the barriers and facilitators of PA participation. Thematic analysis revealed eight themes: Theme 1: Parental involvement, Theme 2: PA barriers, Theme 3: PApreferences, Theme 4: PA parental support, Theme 5: PA facilitators, Theme 6: PA encouragement, Theme 7: Parental directive behaviour, and Theme 8: Strategies to promote PA. Results showed that enjoyable activities that are age appropriate, fun-filled and social in nature, were most appealing to the adolescents. Findings further indicated that parental involvement is key to promoting and sustaining adolescent PA behaviour.