Physical activity determinants in adults. Perceived benefits, barriers, and self efficacy.

Full Abstract

The determinants of physical activity in adults were explored in this study. Explanatory variables included perceived benefits of and perceived barriers to physical activity, and perceived self efficacy for physical activity. Inactive participants were asked to identify barriers to activity, and active participants cited cues prompting them to adopt a physically active lifestyle. Data were collected from 137 adults obtained from work sites, an evening college program, and church groups. Overall, participants were physically active. Self efficacy was the only variable to predict physical activity. Race (i.e., being White) and body mass index (i.e., being overweight) explained perceived barriers to activity. The primary reason for inactivity was lack of time, and the most frequently cited cues to activity were dissatisfaction with one's weight or appearance. Few nursing studies have attempted to increase participants' levels of self efficacy. However, the occupational health nurse is in a unique position to increase workers' perceived self efficacy for activity and, in turn, their activity levels.

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Author information

Author/s: Stutts, Wanda C (WC);

Affiliation: School of Nursing, and Chair, Davis Nursing Program, Gardner-Webb University, Statesville, NC, USA.

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article

Journal: AAOHN journal : official journal of the American Association of Occupational Health Nurses (AAOHN J), published in United States. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2002-Nov; vol 50 (issue 11) : pp 499-507

Dates: Created 2002/12/05; Completed 2002/12/20; Revised 2004/11/17;

PMID: 12465206, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 12/26/2008)

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MeSH headings (categories)

This article was linked to the MESH Headings shown below.

Adult
Aged
Aged, 80 and over
Attitude to Health
Exercise - physiology; psychology
Female
Health Behavior
Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
Humans

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