Faculty research interests are focused on biopsychosocial determinants of exercise and health, determinants of obesity-related behaviors in at-risk populations, gratitude in natural science education, and health disparities in diet and physical activity behavior.
Current Faculty Projects
A Mixed-Methods Exploration of Student-Athletes’ Experiences on an Academically Elite College Campus
Perkins-Ball A
This study explores the experiences of student-athletes’ college experiences, with a particular focus on athletic identity, campus involvement, and the academic stigma of being a student-athlete in a highly selective university. This two-part study consists of an internet-based survey, followed by focus group interviews. The aims of this study are: 1) to explore the level of athletic identity and perceived academic capability among college student-athletes, 2) to understand perceptions of campus climate its influences on student-athletes’ behaviors, and 3) to generate preliminary data used to design and pilot a program to address the needs of student-athletes on elite college campuses.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Stress Disparities among College Students
Diep C*, Kabiri L,* Perkins H, Perkins-Ball A, Rodriguez A
* Denotes co-PI
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Stress Disparities among College Students is a descriptive study of nutrition, PA, and stress among college students between the ages of 18-25 who attend a college in the greater Houston area. The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on nutrition, PA, and stress among college students in the greater Houston area. It explores disparities by living situation, race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and other factors. We hypothesize that the COVID-19 pandemic will have an adverse impact on nutrition, PA, and stress and that there will be disparities among college students, including poorer nutrition, decreased PA, and higher stress among racial/ethnic and low-income students. (Phase 1 of data collection complete, currently analyzing, prepping for dissemination, and planning for Phase 2)
Future Faculty Projects
Future projects TBD...
Contact Information
KINESIOLOGY DEPARTMENT
S203 Tudor Fieldhouse
(713)348-8318 (Office)
(713)348-8808 (Fax)
PHYSICAL ADDRESS
6100 Main St, MS-545 Houston, TX 77005
Our offices are located on the 2nd floor of Tudor Fieldhouse on the east side of the building. The easiest way to access our suite is to enter through the east side door that faces the intramural fields and Wiess College. You will then go up the stairway to the 2nd floor, and our suite will be through the open door ahead on the right.