Validation of the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children in children of different races

Pediatr Exerc Sci. 2007 Feb;19(1):6-19. doi: 10.1123/pes.19.1.6.

Abstract

The Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children (PAQ-C) is a validated self-report measure of physical activity widely used to assess physical activity in children (8-14 years of age). To date, however, the instrument has been validated in largely White Canadian samples. The purpose of the present article is to determine the psychometric properties of the PAQ-C for African American, European American, and Hispanic children. Two studies were conducted in which independent samples were administered the PAQ-C, along with varying indices of cardiovascular fitness, fatness, and psychological measures related to physical activity. Results showed that the reliability and validity of the PAQ-C varied by race and that modifications might be necessary.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Validation Study

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Exercise Test
  • Factor Analysis, Statistical
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Motor Activity*
  • Physical Fitness*
  • Psychometrics
  • Racial Groups*
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Southeastern United States
  • Surveys and Questionnaires*