Development and construct validation of the ‘adolescent physical activity correlates’ (APAC) questionnaires

The primary aim of this research was to develop and validate a tool to measure the correlates of physical activity among adolescent males and females. Secondary aims were to investigate the correlate profiles and objectively measured activity levels of Irish adolescents. Correlates of physical activity were measured using the ‘Adolescent Physical Activity Correlate’ (APAC) questionnaire, developed for this research based on previously validated tools. Physical activity levels were assessed using Actigraph triaxial accelerometers. Five separate research studies were undertaken which examined correlates of activity, levels of activity and validity of the questionnaire. Study one which was exploratory in nature, provided some evidence to support the construct validity of the ‘APAC’ questionnaire. Study two used a series of focus groups to further inform key facilitators and barriers to physical activity among Irish adolescents. Study three measured correlate profiles and activity levels among Irish adolescents using a questionnaire which had construct validity. Males reported a higher correlate profile and had higher levels of activity compared to females. Key correlates identified in the research were participation in sport, physical activity stage of change, self-efficacy and peer support. Study four examined activity levels and correlate profiles of sport participants and non-sport participants. Sport participants were found to have higher levels of activity and a more positive physical activity correlate profile than non-sport participants. Study five assessed the validity and reliability of the ‘APAC’ questionnaires. Principal component analysis revealed an interpretable 13 factor solution for males and 14 factor solution for females. Levels of internal consistency reached an acceptable level, and evidence exists of convergent validity. The final ‘APAC’ questionnaires explained between 38 – 42% of the variance in male and female MVPA. In conclusion the ‘APAC’ questionnaires were found to be valid reliable tools to measure correlates of activity among adolescents.