Perceptions of Exercise in Latin Americans and Non-Hispanic Whites with Overweight and Obesity

This study sought to explore the neural and affective responses to exercise- and sedentary-related imagery among Latin Americans and Non-Hispanic Whites with overweight and obesity, aiming to understand the influence of cultural background on exercise behaviors. Using electroencephalography, the research investigates differences in directional brain connectivity patterns and emotional reactions between the two groups. Participants were shown images depicting exercise and sedentary behaviors, with affective responses recorded via the Self-Assessment Manikin and neural connectivity assessed using Granger Causality Analysis. Results indicate significant differences in brain connectivity between groups and conditions. Non-Hispanic Whites showed stronger connectivity within frontal-parietal networks during exercise imagery, while Latin Americans displayed more distributed connectivity during sedentary imagery, suggesting different neural engagement strategies. Affective data revealed that participants reported higher valence for exercise-related images, with Latin Americans exhibiting higher perceived activation for sedentary images. Qualitative analysis of semi-structured interviews identified key themes, including family support, motivation to exercise, and time constraints. Both groups emphasized the importance of social influences on physical activity; however, Latin Americans expressed more ambivalence toward exercise. Network analysis of interview data further highlighted the complex interplay between these psychosocial factors. This study provides novel insights into how cultural differences shape both neural and emotional responses to exercise, informing the development of culturally tailored interventions to promote physical activity in populations with higher obesity prevalence.