Predicting physical activity behavior among university students using the multi-process action control framework.

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Science
• Health Psychology
• Exercise Science

Background:

• University students often exhibit insufficient physical activity (PA).
• Action control theories, like the Multi-Process Action Control (M-PAC) framework, aim to explain intention-behavior gaps.
• Limited research explores the M-PAC framework's utility beyond traditional social cognitive models for PA.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the Multi-Process Action Control (M-PAC) framework's predictive validity for physical activity (PA) in university students.
• To examine the M-PAC framework's ability to explain variance in both self-reported and device-measured PA.
• To identify key post-intentional processes influencing PA behavior in this demographic.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional online survey administered to 2418 undergraduate students.
• Inclusion of M-PAC constructs: attitudes, capability, opportunity, regulation, habit, and identity.
• Objective PA measurement using accelerometers for a subsample (n=376).

Main Results:

• The M-PAC framework explained 14.3% of device-measured and 37.9% of self-reported moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA).
• Behavioral regulation, habit, and identity significantly predicted self-reported MVPA.
• PA role identity emerged as the sole significant predictor for device-assessed MVPA.

Conclusions:

• Post-intentional processes, particularly role identity, are crucial for understanding university students' physical activity.
• The M-PAC framework offers valuable insights into translating intentions into PA behaviors.
• Interventions targeting habit formation and role identity may enhance PA levels in university populations.