TitleSelf-efficacy mediates the relationship between behavioral processes of change and physical activity in older breast cancer survivors.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2013
AuthorsLoprinzi, PD, Cardinal, BJ
JournalBreast Cancer
Volume20
Issue1
Pagination47-52
Date Published01/2013
ISSN1880-4233
KeywordsAged, Breast Neoplasms, Exercise, Female, Humans, Motor Activity, Self Efficacy, Social Support, Surveys and Questionnaires, Survivors
Abstract

BACKGROUND: The degree to which breast cancer survivors use behavioral processes of change has not been investigated. Additionally, the relationship between behavioral processes and other theory-based mediators of adult physical activity behavior has not been extensively studied among breast cancer survivors. The objectives of this study were to: (1) determine the extent to which breast cancer survivors use behavioral processes associated with physical activity behavior change, and (2) examine the inter-relationships between behavioral processes, self-efficacy, and physical activity behavior among breast cancer survivors.

METHODS: Sixty-nine breast cancer survivors completed surveys examining behavioral processes and exercise-specific self-efficacy. Six months later they completed a self-report physical activity questionnaire.

RESULTS: Findings showed the majority of breast cancer survivors did not use approximately half of the behavioral processes on a regular basis, and self-efficacy completely mediated the relationship between behavioral processes and physical activity.

CONCLUSION: Health care professionals may help enhance self-efficacy and ultimately increase physical activity behavior in breast cancer survivors by teaching behavior skills such as enlisting social support.

DOI10.1007/s12282-011-0298-x
Alternate JournalBreast Cancer
PubMed ID21909810