Objective: Several environmental factors influence adolescents' food habits and television (TV) viewing is thought to be one of these factors. The purpose of the present study was to describe sociodemographic differences in TV viewing and to examine associations of TV viewing with the consumption of sweets, soft drinks, fruit and vegetables in different countries. Methods: Data were collected from 162 305 young people completing the 2001/02 Health Behaviour in School-Aged Children survey, a World Health Organization cross-national study on health and health behaviours among 11-, 13-and 15-year-old school pupils. Analyses of variance were used to examine sociodemographic differences in TV viewing and logistic regression analyses to examine associations between TV viewing and food habits. Results: Large differences were found between countries in reported daily TV viewing time, from an average of 2.0 h in Switzerland to 3.7 h in Ukraine. The results indicate that those most likely to watch TV are boys, 13-year-olds and pupils of lower socioeconomic status. Those who watched more TV were more likely to consume sweets and soft drinks on a daily basis and less likely to consume fruit and vegetables daily, although the latter associations were not so apparent among Central and Eastern European countries. Conclusions: Given the high TV viewing rates among adolescents and the association with less healthy food options, many young people are at increased risk of overweight or obesity. Interventions to modify TV viewing behaviour are needed. The findings underscore the importance of tackling socio-economic differences.
A five-month, in-depth qualitative study was conducted in five sites across England to examine factors influencing children's involvement in physical activity. Sixty primary school students aged 5-11 years took part in paired interviews, and 38 parents were interviewed in groups. The study found that Children of this .age led a generally active lifestyle achieved through general play with friends, enjoyment of PE and an interest in participation in organised activities with parents. Involvement in physical activity was influenced by perceived enjoyment and social and cultural aspects, a finding Which can be utilised in future health promotion efforts. Among some of the older girls investigated, interest and engagement in physical activity was less enthusiastic.Special programmes and interventions may be needed with members of this group to ensure that a physically active lifestyle is maintained.
A five‐month, exploratory, in‐depth study was conducted in six sites across England with young people aged 11‐15 and the parents of secondary school aged children to identify drivers and barriers to involvement in physical activity. Over 100 young people were interviewed in both secondary school and out‐of‐school settings. Two group interviews were also conducted with parents. Findings highlight that both young people and parents consider physical activity important for physical, mental and social wellbeing. Clear gender differences were found in relation to regular involvement in physical activity. Young women were less likely to engage in active pursuits in and out of school, and were more critical of physical education. The research suggests that the determinants of physical activity in young people are complex. A flexible and differentiated approach to the provision and promotion of physical activity seems needed to meet the changing motivational needs and preferences of this age group.
As part of the work leading to the development of the National Healthy Schools Scheme, an audit was carried out of existing healthy schools schemes in England. This, together with an evaluation of healthy schools activities within eight pilot healthy schools partnerships throughout England funded by the Department of Health and the Department for Education and Employment, formed part of the research underpinning the creation of a National Healthy Schools Standard. Principles for effective working are identified, as well as difficulties likely to be encountered in creating and promoting such a standard.
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