Abstract
Perceived neighborhood walkability (PNW) is associated with increased physical activity (PA) and better health outcomes. Limited research has examined these associations among Latinx populations, with few considering the role of acculturation (i.e., acclimation to U.S. norms). This study examined the association between PNW and PA and how this association may vary by level of acculturation among a diverse, U.S. national sample of Latinx adults. 798 Latinx adults (Mage = 39.64±15.05y; 59% female, 61% overweight) completed an online survey through Qualtrics Panels and reported demographic information, generational status, PNW (Neighborhood Environment Walkability Scale-Abbreviated); acculturation, including Native/U.S. cultural identity and language use (The Abbreviated Multidimensional Acculturation Scale); and PA (Health Promoting Lifestyle Profile II). Five hierarchical linear regressions were conducted. PNW was positively associated with PA (βs = .20-.24, ps < .001). U.S. cultural identity was the only significant moderator (β = .11, p = .001). The strongest association was in Latinx adults with high U.S. cultural identity (β = .30, p < .001) compared to those with average (β = .21, p < .001) or low U.S. cultural identity (β = .12, p = .006). Findings highlight the important role of acculturation in how Latinx adults interact with their neighborhood. U.S. cultural identity strengthened the association between PNW and PA, while it was strongest in Latinx with a stronger sense of U.S. culture. These findings offer value in targeting PNW in Latinx populations, regardless of their degree of acculturation to U.S. norms.
Jonathan A. Pedroza (JP)
Lecturer in Psychology at Cal Poly Pomona
My research interests revolve around addressing health inequities in underrepresented populations.