Translating research into practice: using concept mapping to determine locally relevant intervention strategies to increase physical activity.
OBJECTIVE
To translate intervention strategies to increase physical activity interventions recommended by the Community Guide for higher and lower income African-American adults living in an urban, Midwestern community.


METHODS
Structured interviews were conducted with a stratified random sample of African-American men and women from high- and low-income groups. Data were analyzed using concept mapping, a six-step process that incorporates qualitative and quantitative analysis.


RESULTS
The results suggest differences among men and women, high and low income, in the conceptualization of factors associated with physical activity behavior. The different conceptualizations suggest different intervention strategies and action steps may be necessary for subgroups of a population.


CONCLUSIONS
Concept mapping is a participatory method that community members and health practitioners can use to develop locally defined intervention strategies. From the strategies and action steps identified, evidence-based interventions can be developed in light of the optimal characteristics necessary within a community.
Kelly
Cheryl M
CM
Transtria, LLC, 3525 Watson Rd, Ste R, St. Louis, MO 63139, USA. Cheryl@transtria.com
Baker
Elizabeth A
EA
Brownson
Ross C
RC
Schootman
Mario
M
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001741:Black or African American / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D000368:Aged; D001294:Attitude to Health / Q000208:ethnology*; D002487:Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S.; D003256:Community Participation / Q000523:psychology*; D004779:Environment Design; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior / Q000208:ethnology*; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015146:Midwestern United States; D009043:Motor Activity; D009751:Nutritional Requirements; D016730:Program Development / Q000379:methods*; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012449:Safety; D012737:Sex Factors; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D014481:United States; D014504:Urban Health