Examination of the transtheoretical model and exercise in 3 populations.
OBJECTIVE
To examine differences in the processes of change and self-efficacy for exercise across the stages of change in 3 populations to determine its suitability for use in diverse groups.


METHODS
Cross-sectional survey design with population as a between-subjects variable: high school students (n = 168), university undergraduate students (n = 215), and employed adults (n = 63).


RESULTS
ANOVAs revealed main effects of stage (p < .0001) and population (p < .001) in process use and self-efficacy but no population by stage interaction.


CONCLUSIONS
The consistency of patterns of the TTM variables supports its potential for effective intervention in diverse populations.
Rodgers
W M
WM
Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada. wrodgers@per.ualberta.ca
Courneya
K S
KS
Bayduza
A L
AL
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D015444:Exercise / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008960:Models, Psychological; D020377:Self Efficacy; D014481:United States