Date of Award:

5-2002

Document Type:

Thesis

Degree Name:

Master of Science (MS)

Department:

Psychology

Committee Chair(s)

Kevin S. Masters

Committee

Kevin S. Masters

Committee

Edward Heath

Committee

JoAn Tschantz

Abstract

Physical activity is known to offer health benefits. Additionally, research has linked religious involvement with health. Psychophysiological reactivity has links to coronary heart disease. This study examines the relationship between physical activity and religiosity in light of psychophysiological reactivity. The sample included 75 subjects, with a mean age of 71. 7 (SD = 6.11 ), with no history of cardiac incident. Religiosity was measured with the Religious Orientation Scale (ROS). Physical activity was assessed utilizing the Typical Week Physical Activity Scale. Psychophysiological reactivity was measured by blood pressure, heart rate, and self-report anger ratings in response to interpersonal challenge. Regression predicting reactivity, including ROS, total metabolic equivalence (MET) minutes, and interaction of the two resulted in significant prediction of systolic blood pressure change, F (3, 74) = 3.33, p = .024. Analyses suggest relationships between reactivity and religiosity are not mediated by physical activity. Indicating ROS may operate more influentially over prohibited than proactive behaviors.

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