Impact of a brief intervention on physical activity and social cognitive determinants among working mothers: a randomized trial

J Behav Med. 2014 Apr;37(2):343-55. doi: 10.1007/s10865-013-9492-y. Epub 2013 Jan 22.

Abstract

Working mothers exhibit high levels of inactivity, and theory-based interventions to bolster physical activity within this population are needed. This study examined the effectiveness of a brief social cognitive theory-based intervention designed to increase physical activity among working mothers. Participants (N = 141) were randomly assigned to an intervention only, intervention plus follow-up support, or waitlist control condition. The intervention consisted of two group-based workshop sessions designed to teach behavior modification strategies using social cognitive theory. Data were collected at baseline, immediately post-intervention, and 6-month follow-up. Results showed intervention participants exhibited short-term increases in physical activity, which were partially maintained 6 months later. Improvements in physical activity were mediated by increases in self-regulation and self-efficacy. This study provides some support for the effectiveness of a brief intervention to increase physical activity among working mothers. Future programs should explore alternative support mechanisms which may lead to more effective maintenance of initial behavior changes.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Behavior Therapy*
  • Cognition*
  • Education
  • Employment*
  • Female
  • Health Promotion / methods*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Mothers / psychology*
  • Motor Activity*
  • Patient Compliance
  • Psychotherapy, Brief
  • Self Efficacy
  • Social Control, Informal
  • Social Support