3d-printing physical activity in youth: an autotopographical approach to behaviour change

McNarry, Melitta, Knight, Rachel L., Crossley, Sam G.L., Foscarini-Craggs, Paula, Knowels, Zoe, Eslambolchilar, Parisa ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4610-1643 and Mackintosh, Kelly 2023. 3d-printing physical activity in youth: an autotopographical approach to behaviour change. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 20 (2) , 1530. 10.3390/ijerph20021530

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Abstract

The conceptualisation and visualisation of physical activity through 3D-printed objects offers a unique means by which to elicit positive behaviour change. This study aimed to explore whether 3D-printed models of physical activity obtain autotopographical meaning in youths and the influence of such models on their sense of personal and social identity. Following participation in a seven-week faded intervention, whereby habitual physical activity was measured and used to create individual 3D models, the views of 61 participants (36 boys; 10.9 ± 3.0 years) were explored via semi-structured focus groups. Within the over-arching theme of ‘3D-Printed Models’, key emergent sub-themes were structured around ‘Autotopography’, ‘Reflection’, ‘In-group norms’, and ‘Significant others’. Investing meaning in the material representations facilitated social activation and selfreflection on their own behaviour, both of which are key elements of identity formation. The influential role of significant others (familial and peers) within initial model interpretation and their potential long-term efficacy as a behaviour change approach was highlighted. 3D-printed models present a novel concept and intervention approach and may represent a useful component within behaviour change engagement strategies in children and adolescents.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Published Online
Status:	Published
Schools:	Computer Science & Informatics
Publisher:	MDPI AG
ISSN:	1660-4601
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	14 January 2023
Date of Acceptance:	11 January 2023
Last Modified:	09 Apr 2024 09:41
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/155869

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