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Explanation of vigorous physical activity during two years using social learning variables
J F Sallis1, M F Hovell, C R Hofstetter
1Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, CA 92182.
Social Science & Medicine (1982)
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Dynamic social learning factors like self-efficacy and support significantly influence changes in vigorous physical activity over time. These findings highlight the bidirectional relationship between behavior and its determinants in adults.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Science
- Health Psychology
- Exercise Science
Background:
- Social learning theory posits bidirectional relationships between behavior and its determinants.
- These influences and behaviors can change dynamically over time.
- Understanding dynamic determinants is crucial for explaining exercise behavior change.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine dynamic determinants of vigorous physical activity change in adults over 24 months.
- To test the hypothesis that dynamic variables explain more variance in exercise change than static baseline variables.
- To investigate the bidirectional causation between physical activity and its social learning determinants.
Main Methods:
- A community sample of 1739 adults completed mail surveys over 24 months (86% retention).
- Two physical activity change indices were created, adjusted for baseline exercise and demographics.
- Hierarchical regression analysis examined 21 static and 6 dynamic independent variables.
Main Results:
- Baseline self-efficacy significantly predicted exercise change.
- Dynamic variables (self-efficacy, perceived barriers, family support, friend support) were significantly associated with exercise change.
- Social learning variables explained 12.3-15.5% of the variance in exercise change over 24 months.
Conclusions:
- Dynamic social learning variables are significant predictors of physical activity change.
- Results support bidirectional causation between behavior and its determinants.
- Findings suggest hypotheses for experimental studies on exercise behavior interventions.