Self-efficacy in relation to physical activity (PA) means an individual's beliefs about their capabilities to perform PA even when faced with challenges. Self-efficacy stems from personal factors (e.g., age, gender, health) and environmental factors (e.g., safe facilities, transportation, and social support). Many of these factors associated with self-efficacy are challenges for persons with disabilities and those aging. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of self-efficacy on physical activity behavior in special populations by employing a systematic review.
Method
The articles reviewed for this study were searched through Pubmed, Medline, and Ebscohost databases with keywords including: physical activity, self-efficacy, older adult, intellectual disabilities, physical disabilities, and single names of disabilities (e.g., multiple sclerosis, cancer, etc.). The search resulted in 610 studies to be reviewed. Criteria for inclusion for data analysis was (1) self-efficacy as a mediator to PA behavior, (2) sample size larger than 150, (3) all participants were adults over the age of 18 years, (4) recently published (2000 to current), and (5) including correlation coefficients between self-efficacy and PA . Four studies were chosen based on the criteria as a representation of special populations. To summarize the selected study findings, Fisher's transformed correlation (Zr) was employed. Calculated Zr was then transformed back to an average correlation coefficient.
Analysis/Results
The following studies were included in the calculation of Zr coefficient. Note: First author & year, population examined, sample including gender, age (mean/range), and correlation coefficient r, respectively.
Morris, K.S.(2008), Multiple Sclerosis, 173(F), 46.1yrs, r = 0.34
Nosek, M.A.(2006), Physical Disabilities, 386(F), 18-65yrs, r = 0.50
Peterson, J.J. (2008), Intellectual Disabilities, 73(F) 79(M), 37.2yrs, r = 0.33
Resnick, B. (2000), Older Adults, 32(M) 155(F), 85yrs, r = 0.56
As a result of calculating Zr, the coefficient was 0.49 and the back transformed average correlation (r) was 0.45.
Conclusions
The finding depicts that self-efficacy could substantially be affecting on PA behaviors in special populations. Investigating what factors affect on self-efficacy in these populations will be essential when designing future PA interventions.
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