Parent Rules, Barriers, and Places for Youth Physical Activity Vary by Neighborhood Walkability and Income

Abstract

This study examined youth physical activity (PA),correlates of parental rules about children’s PA, perceived barriers,and use of PA facilities by neighborhood walkability and median household income. Parents (N=517) from 32 neighborhoods completed a questionnaire related to the PA of their youngest or only child aged 4-18 years living in the household. Using mixed regression analysis, results showed that neighborhood income and walkability played a significant role in parental perceptions of barriers and their rules for allowing their children to participate in physical activities. Interventions to promote children’s PA may need to vary by neighborhood characteristics