Social cognitive theory-based physical activity intervention delivered by non-supervised technology in persons with multiple sclerosis

Suh, Yoojin

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/45528 Copy

Description

Title

Social cognitive theory-based physical activity intervention delivered by non-supervised technology in persons with multiple sclerosis

Author(s)

Suh, Yoojin

Issue Date

2013-08-22T16:46:42Z

Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)

Motl, Robert W.

Doctoral Committee Chair(s)

Motl, Robert W.

Committee Member(s)

• Chodzko-Zajko, Wojtek
• McAuley, Edward
• Smith, Douglas C.

Department of Study

Kinesiology & Community Health

Discipline

Kinesiology

Degree Granting Institution

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Degree Name

Ph.D.

Degree Level

Dissertation

Keyword(s)

• physical activity
• social cognitive theory
• newsletters
• telephone calls
• multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Physical inactivity has been considered an issue in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) despite the well-documented evidence supporting benefits of physical activity (Debolt & McCubbin, 2004; Motl, McAuley, & Snook, 2005; Ng & Kent-Braun, 1997; Plow, Mathiowetz, & Lowe, 2009; White & Dressendorfer, 2004). This highlights the importance of developing behavioral interventions for increasing physical activity among persons with MS. The primary purpose of the current study was to examine the efficacy of a 6-week, theory-based intervention (i.e., social cognitive theory [SCT]) delivered by newsletters and telephone calls for increasing physical activity in persons with MS who were physically inactive and had middle levels of self-efficacy. The intervention group received SCT-based newsletters and phone calls whereas the control group received newsletters that did not include any physical activity information (i.e., stress management, nutrition, and allergies) over the 6 weeks. Pedometer and log book were provided to the intervention group for the purpose of self-monitoring physical activity. Phone calls were delivered to both groups, but there was no discussion about physical activity for the control group. The results of this study indicated that the intervention group who received SCT-based intervention materials appeared to be more physically active based on self-reported physical activity (d = 0.56, p = .02) over the 6 weeks compared with the control group that received materials including non-physical activity (d = -0.13, p = .45). Additionally, only goal setting was changed by the intervention (d = 0.68, p ≤ .01) and identified as a significant mediator of change in self-reported physical activity (ß = 0.35, p = .007). Overall, the current study provides initial evidence for the potential benefit of theory-based interventions delivered by newsletters and phone calls for promoting self-reported physical activity in persons with MS who are inactive and have middle levels of self-efficacy.

Graduation Semester

2013-08

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http://hdl.handle.net/2142/45528

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2013 Yoojin Suh

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