The social cognitive predictors of adherence to an exercise referral scheme

Abstract

Introduction: In order to add to the developing literature on adherence to exercise referral schemes the present study utilized Bandura’s (1997) social cognitive theory to examine what contributes to adherence to the schemes from a psychological perspective. Specifically, constructs of exercise planning, goal setting, self-efficacy, outcome expectations, and social support were examined. Methods: One hundred and twenty-four adults who had been referred to an exercise referral scheme completed self-report measures across social cognitive variables at the start of the scheme and at four-weeks into the scheme (N=58). Logistic regression was conducted to examine predictors of adherence to the scheme with mixed-ANOVAs assessing differences between adherers and non-adherers. Results: At the start of the scheme there were no psychological variables that successfully predicted adherence to the 8-week scheme, nor were there any significant differences between adherers and non-adherers in exhibiting levels of social cognitive constructs. At four-weeks into the scheme, a logistic regression model consisting of social cognitive constructs (exercise planning, goal setting, task self-efficacy, outcome expectations, and social support from family) explained 33-45% of the variance of adherence to the scheme. Additionally, adherers exhibited significantly higher levels of these social cognitive constructs than non-adherers at this stage of the scheme. Discussion: The findings provide evidence for the usefulness of social cognitive constructs in understanding adherence to an exercise referral scheme. Social cognitive theory can provide a basis for theory-led interventions to help enhance adherence to exercise referral schemes in order to offset physical inactivity levels and any pre-existing health conditions.