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Gender differences in goal-setting behavior in a pedometer-based physical activity intervention
Author
Yong, Shu Ting
Supervisor
Neihart, Maureen
Abstract
Around the world, the prevalence of non-communicable chronic diseases is on the rise. Global organizations are urging people to lead more active lifestyles since physical activity has been associated with numerous positive physical and mental health outcomes. However, rates of physical activity have been on the decline across different age groups and populations. This is perhaps because people find it hard to change from a sedentary lifestyle to a more active one. This study is part of a larger study which aimed to investigate the effectiveness of the mental-contrasting and implementation intentions (MCII) self-regulation strategy combined with goal-setting to help participants realize their physical activity goals. Preliminary analyses of the original study indicated that male participants responded more positively to the intervention as compared to female participants. Therefore, this study was initiated to examine possible gender differences in the way male and female participants utilized the MCII strategy. Using a qualitative approach, responses from the Goal and Questionnaire completed by participants were analyzed and compared across genders. Drawing from research on goal-setting theory, this study explored if male participants set more specific and challenging goals than female participants. However, this was not the case. Instead, it was found that men seemed to be more likely to identify intrinsic motivational factors as obstacles that would prevent them from reaching their goal, while women identified extrinsic factors like lack of time. Nevertheless, it is important to note that these differences were not found to be statistically significant. Implications of the findings and recommendations for future research were discussed.
Date Issued
2017
Call Number
BF505.G6 Yon
Date Submitted
2017