Using a combined protection motivation theory and health action process approach intervention to promote exercise during pregnancy

J Behav Med. 2014 Apr;37(2):173-84. doi: 10.1007/s10865-012-9477-2. Epub 2012 Nov 23.

Abstract

Despite the benefits of exercise during pregnancy, many expectant mothers are inactive. This study examined whether augmenting a protection motivation theory (PMT) intervention with a Health Action Process Approach can enhance exercise behavior change among pregnant women. Sixty inactive pregnant women were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups: PMT-only, PMT + action-planning, and PMT + action-and-coping-planning. Week-long objective (accelerometer) and subjective (self-report) exercise measures were collected at baseline, and at 1- and 4-weeks post-intervention. Repeated-measures ANOVAs demonstrated that while all participants reported increased exercise from baseline to 1-week post-intervention, participants in both planning groups were significantly more active (p < .001) than those in the PMT-only group by 4-weeks post-intervention (η (2) = .13 and .15 for accelerometer and self-report data, respectively). In conclusion, augmenting a PMT intervention with action or action-and-coping-planning can enhance exercise behavior change in pregnant women.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Exercise / psychology*
  • Female
  • Health Promotion*
  • Humans
  • Motivation*
  • Pregnancy
  • Young Adult