Pulido, Ryne Andrew (2016-08). The Impact of Peer Victimization on Physical Activity in Overweight Youth: Exploring Race and Ethnic Differences. Doctoral Dissertation.
Thesis
A significant portion of America's youth is overweight or obese. Bully victimization and psychological maladjustment disproportionally afflict this population; however, it is unknown how these factors are related to each other. Furthermore, being overweight or obese is more prevalent among African American youth who are subsequently at risk for physical and mental health problems associated with excessive body fat. Guided by the Transactional Stress and Coping model, the current study explored whether family and peer supports could buffer against the negative effects of bullying in order to promote physical activity in overweight and obese youth. Findings highlighted the role parents might play in the impact of bullying, maladjustment, and physical activity. Though results for White and African American youth were largely similar, some differences emerged. Implications for theory and future research was discussed.
