Parent-Child association in physical activity and sedentary behaviour

Abstract

Background: Parents influence the physical activity and sedentary behaviour of their children. This analysis examines associations between parental role modeling and support and children's physical activity and sedentary behaviour.

Data and methods: The sample consists of 1,328 biological parent-child pairs from the first three cycles of the Canadian Health Measures Survey (2007 through 2013). Data on physical activity and sedentary behaviour were collected using a questionnaire and by accelerometer. Pearson correlation and linear regression analyses were completed to examine associations between parents' and children's measured physical activity and sedentary time and reported screen-based activities. Analyses were adjusted for variables indicating parental support and household lifestyle characteristics.

Results: Accelerometer-measured physical activity and sedentary time were correlated in all parent-child pairs. Parents' measured moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was associated with children's MVPA (ß = 0.28, p < 0.001). For every 20-minute increase in a parent's MVPA, the child's MVPA increased by 5 to 10 minutes. Parents' measured sedentary time was associated with that of their daughters on weekends, and with that of their sons during the after-school period. Parents' reported screen time was associated with that of their daughters.

Interpretation: This study confirms parents' influence on their children's physical activity. Parental role modeling and support have independent effects on a child's level of physical activity.

Keywords: Accelerometer; exercise health; motor activity; movement; parental support; physical fitness; public health; screen time.