Online Program

278154
Assessment of factors that predict physical activity among Oklahoma clergy: A theory of planned behavior approach


Monday, November 4, 2013

Shannon Gwin, MS, Dept. of Health and Exercise Science, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK
E. Laurette Taylor, PhD, Dept. of Health and Exercise Science, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK
Paul Wesley Branscum, PhD, RD, Department of Health and Exercise Science, The University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK
Craig Hofford, PhD, Department of Health and Exercise Science, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK
The purpose of this study was to examine predictors of physical activity among clergy members in Oklahoma using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). A 51-item, valid and reliable instrument measuring TPB constructs and physical activity was developed and administered to 141 clergy members. Results indicated that the majority of those surveyed were white (93%), college educated (97%), and overweight or obese (84%). Stepwise multiple regression found that intentions accounted for 13.8% of the variance of physical activity, while attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control accounted for 54.8% of the variance of intention. Future interventions should incorporate health counseling or motivational support groups that focus on mediating changes in behavioral attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control as a means to promote physical activity and healthier lifestyle among clergy. Implementing interventions that are sensitive to spirituality and religious roles also may enhance the likelihood of physical activity participation and may be instrumental in changing behaviors in this group. Likewise, exploring external factors that prevent clergy members from participating in physical activity may further explain the lower than expected relationship between intentions and physical activity behaviors in this group.

Learning Areas:

Advocacy for health and health education
Assessment of individual and community needs for health education
Other professions or practice related to public health
Social and behavioral sciences

Learning Objectives:
Discuss the health determinants related to physical activity levels in Oklahoma clergy. Identify the constructs of the theory of planned behavior that predict physical activity behaviors and behavioral intentions in Oklahoma clergy.

Keyword(s): Physical Activity, Theory

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I have completed a thesis over the topic of clergy health as well as other research related to physical activity interventions in a variety of populations. Currently, I am involved in a qualitative study that is exploring barriers and benefits of physical acivity in adults with osteoarthritis.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.