Date of Award
Summer 8-24-2024
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Joanna Buscemi, PhD
Second Advisor
Jocelyn Carter, PhD
Third Advisor
Susan Tran, PhD
Abstract
Emerging adulthood can be marked by psychological disorders and distress. Stress exposure activates several bodily responses involving the hypothalamic pituitary axis (HPA) and autonomic nervous system (ANS). Research into these systems involves the examination of several biomarkers including cortisol and alpha amylase. Basal values of these biomarkers have been linked to well-being and health outcomes. Also, stress biomarkers have been shown to influence physical activity (PA) which is salient because it is linked to chronic illness and disease (e.g., obesity, cancer, depression, diabetes). The present study aimed to explore the bidirectional relationships between basal stress biomarkers and daily PA in a diverse sample of emerging adults (45.6% non-White). Multilevel models were estimated with biomarkers and PA counts (level 1) nested within individuals (level 2). All models were estimated using the Restricted Maximum Likelihood method with a random intercept only. There were no bidirectional relationships between same- or previous-day PA and alpha amylase or cortisol production. Daily hassles predicted average cortisol production and cortisol awakening response (CAR). Future research should focus on increasing observations and/or duration of data collection to better assess the relationship between daily PA and basal biomarkers. Also, researchers should assess intensity of physical activity on biomarkers over longer durations. Overall, emerging adulthood continues to be marked by high levels of uncertainty and stress; therefore, identifying and providing tools to manage stress within this earlier stage of life is still warranted for its potential to produce adaptable, and healthier, individuals and communities as these individuals age into adulthood and beyond.
Recommended Citation
Loiacono, Bernardo, "A Longitudinal Study Assessing the Influence of Salivary Cortisol, Alpha Amylase, and Interleukin-1β Levels on Sleep and Physical Activity Among Emerging Adults" (2024). College of Science and Health Theses and Dissertations. 549.
https://via.library.depaul.edu/csh_etd/549
SLP Collection
no