Term of Award
Spring 2023
Degree Name
Doctor of Public Health (Dr.P.H.)
Document Type and Release Option
Dissertation (open access)
Copyright Statement / License for Reuse
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Department
Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health
Committee Chair
Andrew Hansen
Committee Member 1
Kelly Sullivan
Committee Member 2
Dziyana Nazaruk
Abstract
Introduction. Although research has highlighted the benefits of physical activity in people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), they are still more likely to live an inactive lifestyle. There are limited studies that examine the relationship between physical activity and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) among the MS population. This study aimed to explore the factors that associate with physical activity intent of adults with MS utilizing the constructs of the TPB. Methods. This study utilized a cross-sectional online survey done via a social media platform. There were 326 respondents to the survey and ultimately 249 surveys that met the criteria were included for analysis. Multiple linear regression, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and descriptive statistics were used to analyze the 49-item questionnaire. Results. The results indicated attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control were each statistically significant in their association with physical activity intent. The top three barriers found to be the most frequently problematic among adults with MS were “too tired”, “impairment” and “concern about safety”. The findings also show that the relationship between perceived barriers is statistically significant with intent to be physically active among adults with MS. Discussion. The TPB offers a valuable framework for predicting intentions to perform physical activity among adults with MS. The findings suggested a need for more specified programs focused on the barriers commonly seen among adults with MS.
OCLC Number
1406156220
Catalog Permalink
https://galileo-georgiasouthern.primo.exlibrisgroup.com/permalink/01GALI_GASOUTH/1r4bu70/alma9916571649002950
Recommended Citation
Okpeahior, Biebele, "Factors Associated With Physical Activity Intent Among Adults With Multiple Sclerosis" (2023). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 2547.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/etd/2547
Research Data and Supplementary Material
No
Included in
Community Health and Preventive Medicine Commons, Public Health Education and Promotion Commons
