Spatial analysis of crime incidence and adolescent physical activity

Adolescents do not achieve recommended levels of physical activity. Crime is believed to be a
barrier to physical activity among youth, but findings are inconsistent. This study compares the spatial distribution of crime incidences and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) among adolescents in Massachusetts between 2011 and 2012, and examines the correlation between crime and MVPA.

Eighty adolescents were tracked for their objective physical activity (accelerometer) and location (Global Positioning Systems) data.   Crime report data were obtained from the city police department. Data were mappedusing geographic information systems, and crime and MVPA densities were calculated using kernel density estimations. Spearman’s correlation tested for associations between crime and MVPA.

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Preventative Medicine 85 (2016) p.74-77

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