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Published on: March 7, 2019
Do physical activity beliefs differ by age and gender?
Ryan E Rhodes1, Chris M Blanchard, Rachel E Blacklock
1Behavioural Medicine Laboratory, University of Victoria, BC, Canada.
Journal of Sport & Exercise Psychology
|July 24, 2008
Summary
Physical activity (PA) beliefs are largely consistent across adult age and gender groups. The only significant difference found was that older adults reported greater perceived control over their physical activity levels.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Science
- Public Health
- Gerontology
Background:
- Associations between age, gender, and physical activity (PA) are well-documented.
- Theoretical explanations for these demographic associations with PA are limited.
- Understanding the role of Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) beliefs across demographics is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare mean values and correlations of TPB beliefs and PA across different age and gender groups.
- To investigate the invariance of PA beliefs across adult demographics.
Main Methods:
- A large population sample (N=6,739) of adults (mean age=49.65) completed surveys.
- Measures included social/health demographics, TPB beliefs (behavioral, normative, control), and self-reported PA.
- Statistical analyses compared mean belief values and belief-behavior correlations across age and gender strata.
Main Results:
- Seniors reported significantly greater perceived control over PA compared to younger and middle-aged adults.
- PA beliefs demonstrated invariance across age and gender in 24 out of 26 tested correlations (q<.19).
- Lower perceived control in younger adults may be linked to factors like early parenthood and career demands.
Conclusions:
- Physical activity beliefs, as conceptualized by the Theory of Planned Behavior, are largely consistent across adult age and gender.
- The primary demographic difference observed was in mean levels of perceived behavioral control over PA.
- Current theoretical models of PA do not require adaptation based on specific age groups or gender.
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