Physical activity behaviour: examining theoretical constructs in psychosis population

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Literature has indicated that the use of theoretical model is more effective than atheoretical model in promoting regular physical activity. Regardless of the success of theoretical model, no study has investigated the relationships between theoretical constructs in psychosis population. Hence, this study aimed to examine the associations between these constructs to guide future physical activity intervention strategies. METHODS: A total of 181 outpatients diagnosed with psychotic disorders were recruited. Questionnaires measuring theoretical constructs (self-efficacy, decisional balance, and processes of change) and stages of change were collected. Discriminant analysis was used to examine the importance of the constructs in influencing stages of change. RESULTS: Based on the discriminant function analysis, the best predictors of the stages of change were self-liberation (r = 0.87), counterconditioning (r = 0.63), self-efficacy (r = 0.62), self-reevaluation (r = 0.61), stimulus control (r = 0.59), reinforcement management (r = 0.50), consciousness raising (r = 0.46), and pros of decisional balance (r = 0.39). Generally, 60.8% of cases were classified correctly and the most accurately predicted stages of change were contemplation (80.6%), followed by preparation (58.7%) and pre-contemplation (25.8%). CONCLUSIONS: The results support the assumption of theoretical model in understanding physical activity behaviour among patients with psychosis. Future intervention in promoting regular physical activity can focus on different stages of change by incorporating the motivational interviewing skills.