Is Attitude a Key Factor to Consider When Designing Physical Activity Interventions for Black Adolescent Girls

Abstract

Chronic diseases continue to be disproportionately higher in Black women in comparison with other ethnic groups, with physical inactivity being linked to the growing incidences of many of these diseases. The review of the literature indicates that attitude which is shaped by beliefs, self-efficacy, and cultural factors is a key variable in promoting physical activity (PA) in Black adolescent girls. Specific aims of this review were to identify PA interventions designed specifically for adolescent girls, with an emphasis on Black adolescent girls, and to identify what factor promotes PA in this group. The long-term goal is to use the information from this review to design effective PA programs aimed at Black adolescent girls. Physical activity and fitness were improved in four of the interventions in this review that focused on enhanced self-efficacy, goal setting, social support, and measures aimed at changing attitudes. Overall, this review shows that more effective interventions targeting Black adolescent girls are needed that consider the cultural factors (beliefs, self-efficacy, and family dynamics) that shape one’s attitude toward being physically active.