Where perception and reality differ: dropping out is not the same as failure

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Science
• Exercise Science
• Psychology

Background:

• Understanding factors influencing long-term exercise adherence is crucial for public health.
• Previous research has not fully explored the nuances of perceived success among exercise participants who adhere versus those who drop out.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate differences in perceived success and social-cognitive factors between exercise adherers and dropouts.
• To determine if social cognitions and behaviors differ based on adherence status and perceived success.
• To explore implications for long-term exercise participation.

Main Methods:

• Prospective, observational study design tracking participants over 12 weeks.
• Assessment of social-cognitive measures (self-efficacy, affect, causal attributions) and rate of perceived exertion at early and late program stages.
• Multivariate analyses of variance (MANOVAs) with a 2 (Success/Failure) x 2 (Adherer/Dropout) factorial design.

Main Results:

• Significant interactions were found for self-efficacy, affect, causal attributions, and rate of perceived exertion between adherence and perceived success groups.
• Main effects for perceived success and adherence were also significant.
• Individuals perceiving their exercise experience as 'successful' but dropping out exhibited distinct social-cognitive profiles.

Conclusions:

• Perceived success is a critical differentiator between exercise adherers and dropouts.
• "Successful" dropouts may possess psychological characteristics that facilitate future return to exercise.
• Examining perceived success offers valuable insights into exercise adherence and long-term physical activity engagement strategies.