Date of Award

2026

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Colleen Conley

Abstract

Puberty brings marked changes in physical appearance, biological functioning, psychological well-being, and behavior, making it one of the most pivotal transitions in adolescence. Those who experience puberty earlier than their same-aged peers are at an elevated risk of psychological disorders and physical inactivity. Research shows that there are links between physical activity and psychological disorders, yet few have examined the directional relations between physical activity and internalizing symptoms or whether a certain amount of physical activity is necessary to prevent internalizing symptoms. Therefore, the current study examined (1) the directional relations between internalizing symptoms and physical activity, (2) the degree to which pubertal timing predicts internalizing symptoms, (3) the degree to which pubertal timing predicts physical activity, and (4) how moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) moderates the relationship between pubertal timing and internalizing symptoms. Participants were a part of a larger longitudinal study evaluating the trajectory of pain, and specifically dysmenorrhea, on adolescents assigned female at birth (AFAB) going through puberty (Tu et al., 2024). The current longitudinal study included self-report measures on internalizing symptoms (i.e., depression and anxiety) and physical activity levels measured pre- and postmenarche. Physical activity was also assessed using actigraphy. Results indicated that there was not a significant relationship between internalizing symptoms and physical activity when examining the bidirectional relationship. Premenarchal pubertal timing was not a significant predictor of post-menarchal depression, anxiety, or physical activity. Similarly, MVPA did not moderate the relationship between pubertal timing and internalizing symptoms in this sample. This research has the potential to inform interventions geared towards girls at risk for early menarche as well as to target the general declines in physical activity across puberty to improve mental and physical well-being of adolescent girls.

Download

Share

COinS