A test of the theory of planned behavior to explain physical activity in a large population sample of adolescents from Alberta, Canada

Ronald C Plotnikoff; David R Lubans; Sarah A Costigan; Linda Trinh; John C Spence; Shauna Downs; Linda McCargar

doi:10.1016/j.jadohealth.2011.03.006

A test of the theory of planned behavior to explain physical activity in a large population sample of adolescents from Alberta, Canada

J Adolesc Health. 2011 Nov;49(5):547-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2011.03.006. Epub 2011 Jun 11.

Authors

Ronald C Plotnikoff¹, David R Lubans, Sarah A Costigan, Linda Trinh, John C Spence, Shauna Downs, Linda McCargar

Affiliation

¹ School of Education, Faculty of Education and Arts, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia. ron.plotnikoff@newcastle.edu.au

PMID: 22018572
DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2011.03.006

Abstract

Purpose: To test the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) in a large population sample of adolescents from Alberta, Canada.

Methods: 4,073 adolescents completed a self-administered web-based survey related to physical activity (PA).

Results: TPB explained 59% and 43% of the variance for intention and behavior, respectively. Moderating (by gender) and mediating tests were supported.

Conclusions: TPB is useful for understanding PA in this population.

Publication types

Evaluation Study

MeSH terms

Adolescent
Adolescent Behavior / psychology*
Alberta / epidemiology
Attitude to Health*
Exercise*
Female
Health Behavior*
Health Promotion / methods
Humans
Intention
Internal-External Control
Internet
Male
Self Concept*
Surveys and Questionnaires / standards*