Physical Activity Effects on Depressive Symptoms in Black Adults

Authors

Elisa R. Torres, School of Nursing, University of Iowa
Carolyn M. Sampselle, School of Nursing, University of Michigan
Kimberlee A. Gretebeck, School of Nursing, University of Michigan
David L. Ronis, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
Harold W. Neighbors, School of Public Health, University of Michigan

Keywords

African Americans; Depression; Depression; Mental; Exercise; Stokols’ Social Ecology of Health Promotion; Systematic review

Disciplines

Community-Based Research | Demography, Population, and Ecology | Mental and Social Health | Public Health | Race and Ethnicity

Abstract

Objectives: Randomized trials found physical activity (PA) effective in decreasing depressive symptoms. Few studies included Black participants. The purpose of this systematic literature review was to determine the effects of PA on depressive symptoms in Black adults. Methods: Articles were abstracted by conducting a computer and hand search of eligible studies. Results: Eight of 13 studies found a significant inverse relationship between PA and depressive symptoms in Black adults. Sources for the heterogeneity were explored. Conclusion: Future studies should include representative samples of Black adults, incorporate a theory which considers multiple levels of influence, account for genetic factors in the etiology of depressive symptoms, include individuals diagnosed with depression and with health conditions which may increase the risk of depressive symptoms, account for intra-group ethnic heterogeneity, measure and differentiate between social support and social network, consider aspects of the physical environment and use standardized measurements of PA.

Recommended Citation

Torres, Elisa R.; Sampselle, Carolyn M.; Gretebeck, Kimberlee A.; Ronis, David L.; and Neighbors, Harold W. (2010) "Physical Activity Effects on Depressive Symptoms in Black Adults," Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice: Vol. 4: Iss. 2, Article 6.
Available at: https://digitalscholarship.unlv.edu/jhdrp/vol4/iss2/6