Dr. Harris has been awarded $70,917 from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) for her proposed research titled "Exploring dynamic interactions between psychological and contextual factors on effort-based decision-making".
Research objectives
Guided by the Theory of Effort Minimization in Physical Activity (TEMPA) and socioecological frameworks, the objectives of this research are to:
- Describe the physical- (e.g., at home, work, school, outdoors) and social- (e.g., alone, with family, friends, classmates, coworkers) environmental contexts of adults’ PA behaviour,
- Examine physical-environmental context as a moderator of the association between mental fatigue and PA behaviour in real-time, and
- Examine social-environmental context as a moderator of the association between mental fatigue and PA behaviour in real-time.
Using a real-time data capture method called ecological momentary assessment, we will examine how mental fatigue, physical context, and social context predict physical activity decision-making in real-time. This study addresses a critical need for a nuanced understanding of how dynamic interactions between psychological and environmental factors impact effort-based decision-making. Findings from this research will extend current theories on behavioural choice and effort minimization in physical activity. Furthermore, study findings will inform strategies encouraging Canadians to engage in higher-effort activities in professional, educational, altruistic, and environmental contexts.