Applying exercise stage of change to a low-income underserved population

Cindy L. Carmack Taylor, The University of Texas
Edwin D. Boudreaux, University of Massachusetts Medical School
Shawn K. Jeffries, University of North Texas
Isabel C. Scarinci, University of Alabama
Phillip J. Brantley, Louisiana State University

Article comments

At the time of publication, Edwin Boudreaux was not yet affiliated with the University of Massachusetts Medical School.

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To validate the transtheoretical model for exercise behavior and the constructs of decisional balance and self-efficacy for exercise in a low-income, poorly educated primary care sample.

METHODS: Patients attending public primary-care clinics from 4 separate sites in Louisiana were interviewed regarding their health behaviors.

RESULTS: The data provide equivocal support for applying the transtheoretical model for exercise and integrating it with other models of behavior change within this population.

CONCLUSIONS: Further studies modifying the decisional balance measures are necessary before definitive statements regarding the applicability of these models to exercise within this specialized population can be made.