Physical activity, self-efficacy, and quality of life in multiple sclerosis.
BACKGROUND
Quality of life (QOL) is compromised among individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). Self-efficacy and physical activity have been positively associated with QOL in persons with MS, and based on a social cognitive perspective, the relationship between physical activity and QOL might be indirect and accounted for by self-efficacy.


OBJECTIVE
We tested the hypothesis that physical activity would be indirectly associated with QOL through a pathway that included self-efficacy.


METHODS
Participants were 133 individuals with a definite diagnosis of MS who completed the Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire, Multiple Sclerosis Self-Efficacy scale, and Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale.


RESULTS
Path analysis indicated that those with MS who were more physically active had greater self-efficacy for function and control, and self-efficacy for function and control were associated with greater physical and psychological components of QOL.


CONCLUSIONS
Our findings support physical activity as a possible modifiable behavior for mitigating reductions of QOL by improving self-efficacy in individuals with MS.
Motl
Robert W
RW
Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA. robmotl@uiuc.edu
Snook
Erin M
EM
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009043:Motor Activity; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000145:classification / Q000523:psychology*; D011788:Quality of Life; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012720:Severity of Illness Index