A Mixed-Methods Description of the Home Physical Activity Environments of Racially/Ethnically Diverse and Immigrant/Refugee Children

Abstract

Disparities in childhood obesity prevalence by race/ethnicity remain high. Physical activity is an important factor to consider, however little is known about how physical activity resources in the home environment and neighborhood differ by race/ethnicity. This study examines the physical activity environments in the homes and neighborhoods of diverse households using both quantitative and qualitative data. Home visits were conducted with 150 families, and accelerometry data was collected for both parents and children (5-7 years old). Qualitative interviews were also conducted with parents, which provided context to quantitative data. Racial/ethnic differences were found for physical activity, sedentary behavior, and family-level resources for physical activity ( P < .05). There were also differences by race/ethnicity in neighborhood physical activity promoters and perceived lack of neighborhood safety ( P < .05). This study is important in informing providers and future interventions of the varying promoters and barriers to optimal physical activity that exist across race/ethnicity.