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Effect of pretesting on intentions and behaviour: a pedometer and walking intervention
John C Spence1, Jenny Burgess, Wendy Rodgers
1Faculty of Physical Education & Recreation, University of Alberta, Alberta, T6G 2H9, Canada. jc.Spence@ualberta.ca
Psychology & Health
|March 6, 2010
Summary
Wearing a pedometer increased self-reported walking behavior in female students. However, a pretest did not significantly impact walking intentions, behavior, or self-efficacy when using pedometers.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Science
- Health Psychology
- Exercise Science
Background:
- Understanding factors influencing walking behavior is crucial for public health.
- Pedometers are commonly used tools to encourage physical activity.
- The impact of pretesting on subsequent behavior and intentions requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the effects of pedometer use and pretesting on walking intentions and behavior.
- To assess potential pretest sensitization effects in a pedometer intervention study.
Main Methods:
- A Solomon four-group design was employed with 63 female university students.
- Participants were assigned to conditions with or without pedometers and pretests.
- Pedometers (Yamax Digi-Walker SW-650) were worn for one week.
Main Results:
- Pedometer use was associated with reduced future walking intentions and coping self-efficacy.
- After controlling for baseline walking, pedometer use led to increased self-reported walking.
- No significant pretest sensitization effects were observed for walking intention or behavior.
Conclusions:
- Pedometer use can enhance self-reported walking behavior.
- Pretesting in this context did not significantly alter walking intentions, behavior, or self-efficacy.
- The findings suggest pedometers are effective for increasing walking, independent of pretest measures.
