SELF-EFFICACY IN ADULTS THROUGHOUT A SIX-MONTH PHYSICAL ACTIVITY INTERVENTION

Abstract

Self-efficacy is considered a correlate for physical activity; previous research offers contradictory findings regarding this relationship in adults with obesity. This thesis consists of a manuscript examining how task, coping, and scheduling self-efficacy change with physical activity participation and the effectiveness of each self-efficacy type in predicting physical activity among adults with normal BMI values (< 25 kg/m2) and adults with overweight and obese BMI values (≥ 25 kg/m2). A convenience sample of N=84 healthy adults participated in a six-month community-based physical activity program. A Fitbit Flex measured daily step counts and monthly surveys assessed self-efficacy. Self-reported weight and height were used to calculate BMI. Time had a significant effect within subjects but only for the scheduling component; differences between BMI groups were not significant. Coping and scheduling components were most related to step count. Findings could assist in developing more successful physical activity interventions.