Predicting Physical Activity Behavior in African American Females: UsingMulti Theory Model

Background: Despite physical activity having several benefits, a considerable number of Americans donot engage in sufficient exercise. Among the high-risk groups are African American women. A recenttheory, multi theory model (MTM) for health behavior change can be used to develop effectiveinterventions. The objective of this research was to test MTM in its ability to predict physical activitybehavior in African American women. Study design: A cross-sectional study. Methods: African American women aged 18 yr and older were recruited at various locations (primarilychurches) of Jackson, a large city in Central Mississippi instead of southern Mississippi to participate inthis cross-sectional study in 2016. The valid and reliable survey was administered to a G*Power calculatedquota sample of 156 women either in person or via a Qualtrics link sent through an e-mail. Results: The regression analysis revealed that 32.7% of the variance in initiating physical activity behaviorwas predicted by participatory dialogue, behavioral confidence, and changes in physical environment.Sustenance of physical activity behavior was predicted up to 38.8% by emotional transformation andchanges in social environment. Conclusions: MTM appears to be a robust theory in its application for changing physical activity behaviorin African American women. This theory must be reified and empirically tested with this population.