Dynamic relation between physical activity and sleep in old age – the role of self-regulation, stress and dyadic factors

• Applicant: Dr. Nadine Ungar
• Subject Area: Personality Psychology, Clinical and Medical Psychology, Methodology
• Term: from 2018 to 2019
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 396651852

Health behaviors among older adults such as physical activity and sleep make major contribution towards health. Both health behaviors have beneficial effects on various health outcomes and are key public health priorities. However, physical activity as well as sleep quality and quantity decline with age. There is first evidence for a reciprocal relationship between physical activity and sleep. Yet, so far health- and neuro-psychological mechanisms linking physical activity and sleep are not well understood. According to a model by Hagger, it should be investigated if self-regulation and stress mediate the relationship between sleep and physical activity. Beside these individual factors, recent research has outlined the important role of (marital) partners on health behavior. A conceptual model by Hoppmann and Gerstorf describes how spousal interrelations like shared goals or collaborative problem solving are related to health behaviors and ultimately influence long-term health outcomes. My aim is to include this dyadic approach in self-regulation theory. Motivating and buffering effects but also potential downsides of dyadic factors should be investigated.To enhance previous research methodologically, the temporal link between physical activity and sleep should be examined using Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) as it allows studying detailed daily-life processes.The research questions described above should be examined within the Linked Lives Study by Prof. Hoppmann (my proposed host at the University of British Columbia at Vancouver, Canada). The study offers the unique opportunity to analyse EMA data in a dyadic design with both marital partners.The proposed research will further the understanding of the dynamic relations between physical activity and sleep. In the future, interventions on either physical activity or sleep might profit taking into account the other behavior as well and address self-regulation, stress and dyadic factors.

• DFG Programme: Research Fellowships
• International Connection: Canada
• Host: Professorin Dr. Christiane Hoppmann