Application of Theoretical Models to Exercise Behavior among Employed Women

Abstract

Purpose.: This study examines the utility of three theoretical models—the stages of change model, self-efficacy theory, and the decisional balance model—in understanding exercise behavior among employed women. Design.: Data for this cross-sectional study were collected as part of a routine follow-up of a worksite-based smoking and health risk appraisal study. Setting.: The study was conducted in three Rhode Island worksites, including one manufacturing company, one medical center, and one retail outlet. Subjects.: Of a sample of 431 women who completed exercise questionnaires, 293 reported participation in a physical activity over the previous week. The average age of the sample was 41.1 years, and mean years of education was 12.8. Measures.: Previously validated measures to determine stage of exercise behavior, exercise self-efficacy, exercise decisional balance, and physical activity participation were administered. Additional demographic information was also obtained. Results.: Frequency counts revealed that 39% of the population was sedentary, 34% were participating in irregular activity, and 27% were active. MANOVAs followed by one way ANOVAs revealed that women in Precontemplation scored the lowest and those in Maintenance scored the highest on the self-efficacy, pro, and decisional-balance indices, with the trend reversed on the con scale. A chi-square test revealed that women with one or more young children in the home were more likely to be in a lower stage of exercise adoption. Conclusions.: Most of the women in this cross-sectional study did not engage in regular activity. Presence of young children in the home was significantly related to decreased activity. The results are limited by the nonrandomized, and cross-sectional nature of the study design. Data suggest that, with multiple roles and responsibilities, women may be better served by stage-matched interventions to increase physical activity.