Change in goal ratings as a mediating variable between self-efficacy and physical activity in older men.

BACKGROUND: Few studies have examined the associations between exercise self-efficacy, goals, and physical activity over time. PURPOSE: This study examines whether self-selected goals mediate the changes in exercise self-efficacy on physical activity over 12 months. METHODS: Data are derived from 313 older men participating in the Veterans LIFE Study. RESULTS: Changes in exercise self-efficacy were significantly associated with changes in physical activity both directly (betas = 0.25 and 0.24, p < 0.05) and indirectly (betas = 0.24 and 0.30, p < 0.05) through changes in health-related and walking goal ratings (betas = 0.19 and 0.20, p < 0.05). Both types of goal setting continued to partially mediate the relationship between exercise self-efficacy and physical activity when covariates were added to the models. CONCLUSION: This study extends the application of social cognitive and goal-setting theories to physical activity by showing that goals partially mediate the relationship between exercise self-efficacy and physical activity over time.

Duke Scholars

Author Katherine Shepherd Hall Medicine, Geriatrics and Palliative Care

Author Eleanor Schildwachter McConnell School of Nursing

Author Hayden Barry Bosworth Population Health Sciences

Author Miriam C. Morey Medicine, Geriatrics and Palliative Care