Understanding physical activity intentions and behavior in postmenopausal women: an application of the theory of planned behavior.
BACKGROUND
In the present paper, we report the social cognitive correlates of physical activity (PA) intentions in postmenopausal women using the two-component theory of planned behavior (TPB) framework.


OBJECTIVE
The primary objective of the present study was to investigate the utility of the TPB in understanding PA behavior in postmenopausal women.


METHODS
Postmenopausal women (N = 297) residing in Southern Alberta, Canada completed a mailed questionnaire that assessed self-reported PA and TPB constructs.


RESULTS
Data indicated that 67% of postmenopausal women intended to engage in PA behavior consistent with the public health PA guidelines. Multiple regression analysis suggested that the TPB model explained 44% of the variance in PA intentions with instrumental attitude (β = 0.33), affective attitude (β = 0.29), descriptive norm (β = 0.19), and self-efficacy (β = 0.24) making significant contributions to PA intentions. Postmenopausal women meeting PA guidelines reported higher scores across all TPB variables when compared to women not meeting PA guidelines. Unique behavioral, normative, and control beliefs were also elicited.


CONCLUSIONS
The two-component TPB framework appears to be a useful model for understanding PA intentions and behavior in postmenopausal women. These data can be used in the development and establishment of PA behavior intervention and health promotion materials designed to facilitate PA intentions and behavior in postmenopausal women.
Vallance
Jeff K
JK
Centre for Nursing and Health Studies, Athabasca University, Athabasca, AB, Canada T6G-2H9. jeffv@athabascau.ca
Murray
Terra C
TC
Johnson
Steven T
ST
Elavsky
Steriani
S
D001294:Attitude to Health; D015444:Exercise / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior; D006801:Humans; D033182:Intention; D009042:Motivation; D009043:Motor Activity; D017698:Postmenopause / Q000523:psychology*; D011582:Psychological Theory; D012044:Regression Analysis; D020377:Self Efficacy; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires