The Relationship Between Perceived Sedentary Behaviour and Psychological Health
Abstract
The present study examined relationships between individuals’ perceptions of their level of sedentary behaviour, as compared with other people their age, and mental health and well-being. Adults (n = 374, Mage= 60% between 18 and 24) completed the online Perceived Sedentary Behaviour and Psychological Health Survey which assessed perceptions of sedentary behaviour on a typical weekday and weekend day, mental health and well-being (i.e., depression, state anxiety, perceived stress, mental well-being, mental health function), and potential covariates that have known associations with mental well-being (e.g., sociodemographic characteristics, health status factors, actual sitting time). Perceived sedentary behaviour relative to others on a typical weekend day was a significant predictor of mental health and well-being, whereas weekday perceptions failed to be an influential factor. The research and theory presented here have implications for interventions intended to reduce health risks.