The relationship of internally directed behavior to self-reinforcement, self-esteem, and expectancy values for exercise.
OBJECTIVE
This study investigated two opposing orientations toward exercise and wellness behavior as related to selected personal characteristics.  A "self-trusting" orientation focuses on process measures, and exercise and wellness behavior is internally directed.  A "self-controlling" orientation focuses on outcome measures, and exercise and wellness behavior is externally directed.


METHODS
Relationships among variables were assessed using Pearson correlation and step-wise multiple regression.


METHODS
One questionnaire was administered to all subjects under quiet classroom conditions.


METHODS
Subjects were enrolled in university physical education activity classes (N = 154), a health promotion and fitness undergraduate class (N = 52), and a commercial aerobic dance program (N = 68).


METHODS
The questionnaire, containing 157 items, assessed exercise orientation, wellness orientation, general self-esteem, physical self-esteem, self-reinforcement, expectancy values for exercise, and level of physical activity.


RESULTS
Individuals who reported exercising to improve physical appearance and/or physical performance had higher control scores on the exercise scale; exercising for pleasure or social reasons served as suppressor variables.  High control scores on wellness and exercise orientation were indicative of individuals less likely to positively self-reinforce their behavior.  A high control score on the wellness scale was significantly related to lower general and physical self-esteem scores.  Finally, higher physical self-esteem was significantly related to exercising for pleasure and athletic reasons; exercising to improve physical appearance served as a suppressor variable.


CONCLUSIONS
These data strengthen the recommendation that health promotion professionals consider alternative approaches to promoting exercise and enhancing wellness.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Field
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Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, University of Texas, Austin 78712.
Steinhardt
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D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001828:Body Image; D015444:Exercise / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior; D006293:Health Promotion; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D008297:Male; D010809:Physical Fitness; D012044:Regression Analysis; D012649:Self Concept; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires