Date of Award

Spring 1-2021

Thesis Type

Open Access

Degree Name

Master in Applied Behavior Analysis and Clinical Science

Department

Health Professions

Committee Member(s)

Dr. Kara Wunderlich, BCBA-D

Dr. Stephanie Kincaid, BCBA-D

Dr. Angie Campanale, BCBA-D

Supervising Faculty Member

Dr. Kara Wunderlich, BCBA- D

Abstract

Engagement in physical activity can assist with the prevention of a variety of serious health complications. Although there is evidence for the many benefits of physical activity, percentages of engagement in physical activity among adults around the world are low. Through the use of an experimental analysis, we investigated what environmental conditions maintain physical engagement with two neurotypical adults. The conditions evaluated included attention, no interaction, escape, and tangible. These conditions were compared to a control condition. Results of this study indicated physical activity engagement was maintained by automatic reinforcement for each participant. Evaluating these controlling variables can assist clinicians in promoting healthy behaviors such as physical activity engagement among adults.

Comments

Portions of this research project were conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020-2021. Appropriate precautions were implemented to protect the health of both researchers and participants. Consequently, the thesis requirements and expectations for Rollins College students were modified during this academic year to ensure quality research experience while also maintaining safety.

Rights Holder

Michelle Loaiza

Download

Share

COinS