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Published on: March 7, 2019
Multilevel Factors Associated With Sedentary Behavior Reduction Among Office Workers in Korea
Soo Kyoung Kim1, Jiye Kim2, Hyekyeong Kim2
1Department of Universal Health Coverage Policy Research, Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs, Sejong, Korea.
American Journal of Health Promotion : AJHP
|July 21, 2026
Summary
Korean white-collar workers
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Behavioral Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Excessive sedentary behavior (SB) is a growing concern in modern workplaces.
- Understanding cultural nuances is crucial for effective health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate sedentary behavior reduction determinants in Korean white-collar workers.
- To apply the Integrated Behavioral Model (IBM) within a collectivist workplace context.
Main Methods:
- A sequential exploratory mixed-methods design was employed.
- Qualitative interviews explored social norms and barriers, informing a quantitative survey of 497 employees.
- Thematic coding and multilevel regression analyses were used.
Main Results:
- High SB levels were reported, with some workers avoiding standing due to social pressure.
- Intention to reduce SB was linked to positive emotions, perceived colleague behavior, self-efficacy, and lower job stress.
- SB reduction behavior correlated with stronger intentions, better skills, and sit-stand workstations.
Conclusions:
- The IBM is relevant for understanding health behaviors in collectivist cultures, highlighting the role of norms and hierarchy.
- Workplace health promotion should consider emotional benefits, skill development, and culturally sensitive strategies.
- Addressing organizational hierarchy and social norms is key for effective SB reduction.