On our feet: feasibility trial of an intervention to reduce sedentary behavior and increase physical activity

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Melanie Adams (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Advisor
Diane Gill

Abstract: Sedentary behavior (SB) is emerging as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes (Katzmarzyk, 2010, Owen et al., 2010), and is a target for intervention. This study examined effects of a Social Cognitive intervention to increase self-efficacy (SE) for reducing SB and increasing PA. Female members (Mage=58.5, SD=12.5 yrs) from seven weight loss support clubs were enrolled in a 6-week intervention (n=40) or waitlisted (n=24) based on club randomization. The intervention, delivered via group sessions and email, used mastery feedback from goal-setting activities along with behavioral cues and modeling to reduce SB and increase steps. Quantitative and qualitative process evaluation data were collected throughout. PA and SB were measured by accelerometers. SE (to reduce SB, to increase light & moderate PA) were measured pre, mid, and post. Repeated-measures MANOVA found no significant change over time or Group x Time interaction for behavior. A significant effect for time was noted for SE to reduce SB (F=3.34, p<.05) and the Group x Time interaction approached significance. SE decreased at mid-point, but increased for the intervention group while the waitlist group continued to fall. Differences between rural and urban women in SB (F=4.69, p<0.04) and SE to reduce SB (F=4.75, p<0.05), were significant, with rural participants having less SB and lower SE to reduce SB than urban peers. Participants' perceptions were examined to provide a contextualized understanding of SB and methods to change behavior. Analysis identified compliance barriers, including required sitting, accuracy of self-monitoring, work and family responsibilities and questions of relevance. Significant differences in SE to reduce SB were seen when compliant participants were compared to non-compliant participants (F=2.44, p<0.05). Behavioral cues and modeled behaviors were less impactful than anticipated. Participants were receptive to monitoring PA via pedometer, though challenges in self-monitoring SB were noted. The role of SE in changing SB needs further study. Findings suggest that interventions must consider contextual factors, such as location and occupation as well as individual factors (SE) and barriers. Future studies should consider the effect of modifying the built-environment on SE to reduce SB and improve methods for self-monitoring.

Additional Information

Publication
Dissertation
Language: English
Date: 2012
Keywords
Accelerometer, Computer-based intervention, Pedometer, Physical activity, Sedentary behavior, Self-efficacy
Subjects
Sedentary behavior $x Health aspects $v Case studies
Exercise $x Research $v Case studies

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