ABSTRACT
Background of the study: The social cognitive theory (SCT) is used in psychology to predict human behaviour and is a useful tool across many disciplines. The constructs of the social cognitive theory are cognitive elements that assess human behaviour and can determine the willingness of an individual to engage in physical activity.
Aim (s): This study aimed at assessing the level of physical activity of community dwelling adults in Benin city and the association of social cognitive theory constructs with physical activity.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study design was used in this study. Stratified sampling technique was used to select respondents among community dwelling adults in Benin city based on neighbourhood type which was categorised into high walkability-low socioeconomic status and low walkability-high socioeconomic status neighbourhoods. The physical activity level was measured using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short form, self-efficacy was measured using the Exercise Self-efficacy Scale, social support was measured using the Social Support for Exercise questionnaire, outcome expectancy was measured using the Multi-dimensional Outcome Expectation for Exercise Scale, self-regulation was measured using the Short form Self-regulation questionnaire and perceived barriers was measured using the Exercise Benefits and Barrier Scale.Descriptive and inferential statistics were used as appropriate and alpha level set at 0.05.
Results: Majority of the participants (79.2%) reported moderate to high level of physical activity. Of all the constructs, self-efficacy was found to be a significant predictor of high level of physical activity (unstandardised coefficient [B] =64.881; p=0.047). Other constructs did not have significant association with physical activity (p>0.05). In subgroup analysis by gender, self-efficacy (B=86.046; p=0.025) and outcome expectancy (B=37.276; p=0.011) were significant predictors of physical activity.
Conclusion: Self-efficacy is an important SCT construct associated with higher physical activity. Outcome expectancy and self-efficacy may be potential predictors of higher physical activity in female adults. Other constructs did not predict physical activity. Interventions to increase the level of physical activity should target self-efficacy in adults living in Benin city and include outcome expectation in female adult.
Keywords: Social cognitive, physical activity, self-efficacy, social support, outcome expectation, self-regulation, perceived barriers.
