Longitudinal examination of social and environmental influences on motivation for physical activity

摘要

Abstract Background Physical activity behavior is influenced by numerous factors including motivation, social interactions, and the walkability of the environment. Aim To examine how social contexts and environmental features affect physical activity motivational processes across time. Methods Participants ( N =104) completed 3 monthly online surveys assessing self-determination theory constructs, social partners in physical activity, neighborhood walkability, and weekly physical activity. Longitudinal path analysis examined the degree to which physical activity was predicted by individual goals, orientation, and autonomy support and whether these associations were meditated by motivation and moderated by the social and environmental contexts of physical activity. Results The effect of controlled exercise orientations on physical activity was mediated by autonomous motivation. This association was stronger among those who perceived less crime in their neighborhoods. Discussion To improve the ability to tailor physical activity counseling it is important to understand how each person views exercise situations and to understand his/her social and neighborhood environments. Highlights ? This study explores how social and environmental context may influence PA motivation. ? The effect of controlled exercise orientations on PA was mediated by autonomous motivation. ? This mediated effect was stronger among those who perceived there to be less crime in their neighborhood. ? By understanding motivational processes nurses are better positioned to implement PA counseling.