Social Experiences, Social Support and Residence as Determinants of Sedentary Behaviour Among Indigenous Adults in Saskatchewan

Abstract

Centuries of ongoing colonization, assimilation and historic trauma have changed social structures, roles and responsibilities among Indigenous Peoples: First Nations, Métis and Inuit. Social factors and experiences can influence sedentary behaviour; however, relationships between social determinants and sedentary behaviour among Indigenous Peoples in Saskatchewan are unclear. Objective: The purpose of this study is to examine historic trauma, social support and residence as determinants of sedentary behaviour for Indigenous Peoples in Saskatchewan. Design: Historic trauma, social support, discriminatory experiences, residence type and sedentary behaviour were evaluated through questionnaires by 111 Indigenous adults from the University of Saskatchewan in 2018-2019. Results: Regression associated community, family and positive perceptions of social support, as well as rural/urban home communities, northern/southern home communities and age with continuous sitting among Métis (N=38, R=0.88, p<0.001). Among First Nations (N=69), regression associated age and friend support (R=0.40, p=0.01) with screen time, and community support (R=0.27, p=0.04) with continuous sitting. Regression among Indigenous participants (N=111) associated discrimination, on- and off-reserve home communities, and age (R=0.40, p=0.001) with sedentary behaviour, and discrimination and positive perceptions of support (R=0.33, p=0.01) with continuous sitting. Conclusion: Social supports, home communities and discrimination experiences are important determinants of sedentary behaviour, screen time and continuous sitting for First Nations and Métis, with experiences specific to each identity.