The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #65684

Jeffrey S Hallam, PhD, AAHB and Danielle D Williams, MS. Center for Health Promotion and Health Behavior, The University of Mississippi, PO Box 1848, 215 Turner Center, University, MS 38677, 662.915.5140, jhallam@olemiss.edu

It has been recommended that to increase the effectiveness of exercise behavior interventions that more research should focus on a better understanding of the predictors of exercise and toward interventions demonstrated to effect change in these predictors of exercise. Therefore, the purpose of study was to examine the construct validity of a social cognitive theory (SCT) based intervention on exercise behavior. Subjects were randomly assigned to treatment (n=35) and control (n=35) groups. Both groups received access to an on-site fitness facility, orientation, and individual exercise program. The treatment group also received a four-hour intervention designed to enhance the SCT variables. Observations were made at baseline, 6 weeks, 6 months and 12-months. All instruments had established reliability and validity. Results show no interaction for self-efficacy (p=0.338). A significant interaction was found for self-regulation (p < 0.001), outcome-expectancy values (p=0.048) and total days of exercise (p<0.001). The significant difference between the groups on self-regulation and outcome-expectancy value shows the intervention was effective in enhancing these intervention components. Self-efficacy increased at 6w for both groups and decreased at 6m and 12m. The treatment group reported exercising 3 days/week at 12m compared to 1.5 days/week for the control group. A mediating effect was found for self-regulation. No mediating effect was found for self-efficacy or outcome-expectancy value. The skill-based nature of self-regulation may explain the mediating effect. These data are the first to show a mediating effect of self-regulation on exercise behavior. The results are promising for developing effective and efficient exercise promotion programs.

Learning Objectives:

• At the conclusion of the session, the participants will be able to:
• Describe the mediating effects of self-regulation, self-efficacy, and outcome-expectancy value on exercise behavior.
• List three reasons for using construct validity of treatments for exercise behavior research.

Keywords: Exercise, Theory

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.