Effects of Social Skills and Physical Activity Training on Recreational Activities in Youth

Effects of Social Skills and Physical Activity Training on Recreational Activities in Youth

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of social skills training on adolescents physical activity levels. For one week at the beginning and end of the study teens will wear a BioTrainer to measure their activity levels and also wear a pager to communicate the types of activities they are doing throughout the day. For 8 weeks participants will be randomized into one of two groups, a social skills training group or a physical activity group.

The investigators predict that both groups will experience an increase in physical activity and social involvement (decrease time spent alone).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Boys and girls ages 12-14
• Youth who encounter problematic relationships with their peers

Exclusion Criteria:

• Youth should have no psychopathology, developmental disabilities, or asthma that would limit participation
• Youth should have no cold or upper respiratory distress or a condition that could influence their activities
• Youth should not be taking medications that could affect their level of activity