Selected Social Cognitive Theory Variables as Predictors of Exercise Behavior of University Students

Abstract

A limited amount of research has been conducted addressing university students' physical activity levels. According to Health People 2010, 15% of adults (18 years and older) perform the recommended amount of physical activity. Therefore, there is a need to develop effective intervention programs for young adult populations. The relationships among the Social Cognitive Theory variables; exercise role identity, selfefficacy, self-regulation and outcome expectancy value are not known. PURPOSE: To examine the relationship among the Social Cognitive Theory variables exercise role identity, self-efficacy, self-regulation and outcome expectancy value as well as to determine their ability to predict exercise behavior. Subjects: One hundred thirty eight represents a convenient sample of students form a mid-sized university located in the southeastern United States. METHODS: All subjects completed a six-part questionnaire consisting of a four valid and reliable instruments designed to measure the desired Social Cognitive Theory variables, a demographic profile and a seven-day physical activity recall. Linear and logistic regression equations were used to determine the relationships among the variables. RESULTS: regression analyses revealed exercise role identity (R2=.236), selfefficacy (R2=.152), self-regulation (R2=.064) and outcome expectancy value (R2=.158) were significant predictors of exercise behavior. Logistic regression indicated the independent variables correctly predicted exercise behavior 100% of the time. CONCLUSION: In this study exercise role identity was the strongest predictor of exercise behavior. Self-efficacy, which has been found in previous research to be the strongest predicting variable, was not found to be the strongest predictor of exercise behavior in this study. All variables were found to be significant in the determination of likelihood to exercise.: