Author ORCID Identifier:

https://orcid.org/0009-0008-4229-4533

Date of Graduation

9-2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy in Health, Sport and Exercise Science (PhD)

Degree Level

Graduate

Department

Health, Human Performance and Recreation

Advisor/Mentor

Lirgg, Cathy

Committee Member

Jack Kern

Second Committee Member

Paul Calleja

Third Committee Member

Wen-Juo Lo

Keywords

College Students; Health-Related Quality of Life; Native American; Physical Activity

Abstract

This study explored the interaction effects of physical activity levels and race on college students' physical and mental health, focusing on Native American students. A total of 245 students participated, categorized by physical activity levels (low, moderate, and high) and race (Native American and others). Descriptive statistics outlined the sample characteristics and physical activity behaviors. At the same time, a two-way ANOVA was conducted to assess the effects of race and physical activity on health-related quality of life, measured through physical and mental composite scores (PCS and MCS). The results revealed a significant interaction effect between race and low physical activity levels on physical health, indicating that Native American students in the low physical activity group had significantly lower PCS scores compared to their non-Native American counterparts. However, no significant main effects of race or physical activity levels on PCS scores existed. Regarding mental health, no significant differences were observed across physical activity levels or between racial groups. Similarly, the interaction between race and physical activity levels did not significantly affect mental health outcomes. These findings suggest that the relationship between physical activity and physical health may be particularly relevant for Native American students with low physical activity. In contrast, mental health outcomes remain unaffected by race or physical activity levels.

Download

Share

COinS