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Published on: March 7, 2019
Self-silencing as a predictor of physical activity behavior
1Nursing, Winston-Salem State University, Winston-Salem, USA. wallacejb@wssu.edu
Issues in Mental Health Nursing
|July 24, 2013
Summary
Self-silencing theory, where women suppress their needs, was studied in African American women. This behavior did not predict their physical activity levels or adherence to exercise recommendations.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Public Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Self-silencing theory posits women may neglect personal needs for others.
- The relationship between self-silencing and physical activity remains unexplored.
- Understanding factors influencing women's health behaviors is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess self-silencing levels in educated African American women.
- To determine if self-silencing predicts physical activity behavior in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study design.
- Inclusion of highly educated, affluent African American women.
- Measurement of self-silencing and self-reported physical activity.
Main Results:
- Participants reported an average of 193 minutes of physical activity weekly.
- Only 36% met aerobic physical activity guidelines.
- Self-silencing scores did not correlate with physical activity levels.
Conclusions:
- Self-silencing was not found to be a predictor of physical activity in this cohort.
- Further research is needed to identify barriers and facilitators to physical activity among African American women.
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