J Korean Soc Biol Ther Psychiatry.  2022 Jun;28(2):74-82.

Effects of Child Maltreatment on Physical Activity and Sleep in Healthy Adults: A Wearable Device Use Experiment *

• Kim MS
• Park S
• Cha M
• Lee SW

Abstract

Objectives
：Maltreatment is one of representative risk factor for psychiatric illnesses. While several studies indicate the relationship between physical activity and maltreatment, there was lack of study using objective measurements. This study was conducted to find the biomarkers of physical activity related to maltreatment experiences in healthy adults using wearable device.
Methods
：A total of 60 healthy adults were recruited; 15 subjects reported maltreatment experiences. Physical activity and sleep data were collected using Fitbit for 2 weeks. Child maltreatment experiences were assessed by Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE). Symptoms were measured using the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7).
Results
：The child maltreatment group showed lower movement distance (p=0.025) and number of walks (p=0.010) compared to the control group. After controlling for anxiety and depressive symptoms in women, maltreatment group represented significant reduction in light activities (p=0.021) as well as movement distance (p=0.024) and number of walks (p=0.011). There was no significant difference in sleep variables between the two groups.
Conclusions
：Even in healthy participants, maltreatment experiences can negatively affect daily light physical activity.

Keyword

Child abuse; Exercises; Sleep; Wearable electronic devices