Bridging the intention-behavior gap in physical activity among adults with obesity: A situation-specific theory

Adherence to physical activity is a major challenge in the management of obesity. While research on physical activity among individuals with obesity has expanded, there is still a lack of a systematic, population-specific theoretical framework that addresses the unique behavioral mechanisms pertinent to this demographic. This study aims to develop a situation-specific theory of physical activity tailored for adults with obesity and applicable to nursing clinical practice.

An integrative approach was employed, combining theoretical analysis, a scoping review, qualitative inquiry and expert consultation to construct the situation-specific theory.

The resulting theory comprises six interacting components: time perspective, intention, behavioral prepotency, self-regulatory capacity, ambient temporal contingencies, and outcome experience. Time perspective encompasses connectedness beliefs of physical activity and perceived risk of obesity. Behavioral prepotency incorporates habit, automatic affective evaluations of physical activity, and internalized weight stigma. Ambient temporal contingencies encompass individual, social, and physical factors that shape behavioral engagement over time. Collectively, these components delineate how intention is translated into action-or disrupted-within the lived context of obesity.

The proposed situation-specific theory shows promise for guiding the development of targeted strategies to promote sustained physical activity among adults with obesity, offering a theoretical basis for nursing practice and research. Further critical appraisal and empirical validation are warranted.