Date of Award

5-2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Mathematics and Systems Engineering

First Advisor

Kastro Hamed

Second Advisor

Joo Young Park

Third Advisor

John Meyer

Fourth Advisor

Natalie Dorfeld

Abstract

There are numerous benefits associated with physical activity. Unfortunately, few people participate in enough daily activity to reap the rewards. Health professionals have explored ways to promote adherence to physical activity and healthy behavior. Evidence shows self-regulation to be a determinant of physical activity. This study investigated the relationship between self-regulation strategy usage and levels of physical activity participation. Additionally, the study examined how motivation (through the perspective of Self-Determination theory) impacts physical activity. Six behavior regulation styles correspond to the degree of motivation (from low to high) on the Self-Determination continuum. A comparison of behavior regulation styles to physical activity levels was performed to better understand how motivation drives the decision to be physically active. Participants were students (at least 18 years old) enrolled at a private university in Florida. Self-report questionnaires were used to measure the variables in this study: self-regulation strategy usage, behavior regulation style, and physical activity participation. When analyzed, self-regulation strategy usage was related to physical activity. Those who participated in strenuous physical activity used more self-regulation strategies than those who participated in only non-strenuous activity. Compared to non-strenuous activities, participation in strenuous activities may result in better health benefits. High levels of physical activity were seen among highly self-determined (autonomous) behavior regulation styles. Self-regulation strategies were used more by those within the higher autonomous behavior regulation styles. This information may guide research on how to promote activity based on an individual’s level of motivation. GPAs were compared to physical activity and self-regulation. Some studies have shown academic achievement (e.g., GPA or math scores) to be related to physical activity. In this study, the GPA levels did not appear to be associated with physical activity. There was not enough evidence to show GPA impacted usage of self-regulation strategies. Freshman class and graduates had higher levels of physical activity. Freshmen living on campus may part of the reason for higher activity compared to other undergraduate students. These findings suggest having an environment favorable for activity (and less driving) provides more opportunities to reach healthy levels of physical activity.

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