title: Effects of Online Self-Regulation Activities on Physical Activity Among Pregnant and Early Postpartum Women.
abstract: Physical and psychological changes that occur during pregnancy present a unique challenge for women's physical activity. Using a theory-based prospective design, this study examines the effects of pregnant women's (a) physical activity cognitions (self-efficacy, outcome expectancy, and safety beliefs) and (b) online self-regulation activities (goal-setting and self-monitoring) on subsequent changes in their physical activity intentions and behavior during pregnancy and immediately postpartum. The authors used data from three panel surveys administered to pregnant women enrolled in a web-based intervention to promote healthy pregnancy and postpartum weight, as well as log data on their use of self-regulatory features on the intervention website. Perceived self-efficacy and perceived safety of physical activity in pregnancy enhanced subsequent intentions to be physically active. Repeated goal-setting and monitoring of those goals helped to maintain positive intentions during pregnancy, but only repeated self-monitoring transferred positive intentions into actual behavior. Theoretically, this study offers a better understanding of the roles of self-regulation activities in the processes of goal-striving. The authors also discuss practical implications for encouraging physical activity among pregnant and early postpartum women.
authors.affiliation: a Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information, Nanyang Technological University , Singapore.
authors.forename: Hye Kyung
authors.initials: HK
authors.lastname: Kim
authors.affiliation: b Department of Communication , Cornell University , Ithaca , New York , USA.
authors.forename: Jeff
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Niederdeppe
authors.affiliation: c Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University , Ithaca , New York , USA.
authors.forename: Meredith
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Graham
authors.affiliation: c Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University , Ithaca , New York , USA.
authors.forename: Christine
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Olson
authors.affiliation: b Department of Communication , Cornell University , Ithaca , New York , USA.
authors.forename: Geri
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Gay
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006040:Goals; D006801:Humans; D033182:Intention; D020407:Internet; D009043:Motor Activity; D049590:Postpartum Period / Q000523:psychology*; D011247:Pregnancy; D037841:Pregnant People / Q000523:psychology*; D015397:Program Evaluation; D000068356:Self-Control / Q000523:psychology*; D055815:Young Adult