The relationship between self-motivation and action control (decision implementation) as dispositional determinants of exercise adherence

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Authors
Aoki, Yuko
Advisor
Gobble, David C.
Issue Date
1993
Keyword
Degree
Thesis (M.S.)
Department
Institute for Wellness
Other Identifiers
Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between self-motivation and action control (decision implementation) as dispositional determinants of adherence to exercise programs at a worksite setting. Past studies have shown self-motivation to be a good measure of individual difference between those who persist in exercise behavior and those who do not. Theorists have suggested that individuals with a high action orientation are more likely to maintain and enact their intentions than those with a high state orientation. This study attempted to objectively test the theories by determining whether or not "regular" exercisers are more likely to demonstrate a high action control orientation and /or self-motivation than "irregular" exercisers. An attempt was also made to determine whether or not action control might be a stronger exercise adherence predictor than self-motivation.Eighty five hospital employees who were members of the wellness center at Ball Memorial Hospital, completed a demographic questionnaire, the Self-Motivation Inventory, and the Action Control Scale. Correlational analysis data indicated "regular" exercisers were more likely to demonstrate self-motivation than "irregular" exercisers. However, multiple regression analysis indicated that neither action control nor self-motivation accounted for more than 7% of the total variance. Further study is recommended.

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