23rd Annual Student Research Conference
Attitudes Toward Social Physique Anxiety and Exercise Behavior Among Female Students Attending A Small Midwestern University
Alysha R. Munoz* and Anna E. Grinter
Dr. Joseph Visker, Faculty Mentor
Abstract The purpose of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude and behaviors regarding social physique anxiety (SPA) and exercise behavior in female college students attending a small midwestern university. Female participants (N = 48), ranging from ages 18-22, completed a questionnaire packet that assessed exercise recommendations, personal body image, and exercise frequency and intensity. Survey results were assessed using SPSS. The mean score for the knowledge assessment, comprised of five knowledge questions (out of 5 possible points), was 3.67 (SD = 1.088). The mean score for the SPA attitude assessment, which was comprised of five SPA questions (out of 25 possible points), was 15.59 (SD = 4.335). Walking and running were the most comfortable exercises that subjects participated in. Participants attitude scores indicated a fairly positive attitude towards their physique and social physique anxiety. Participants showed sufficient knowledge regarding different categories of exercise and national recommendations of exercise.
Keywords: social physique anxiety, body image, exercise behavior
Topic(s):Health Science
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 5-7
Location: SUB-GEO
Time: 4:15