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Physical Activity, Self-Efficacy, and Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis

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Annals of Behavioral Medicine

Abstract

Background

Quality of life (QOL) is compromised among individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). Self-efficacy and physical activity have been positively associated with QOL in persons with MS, and based on a social cognitive perspective, the relationship between physical activity and QOL might be indirect and accounted for by self-efficacy.

Purpose

We tested the hypothesis that physical activity would be indirectly associated with QOL through a pathway that included self-efficacy.

Methods

Participants were 133 individuals with a definite diagnosis of MS who completed the Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire, Multiple Sclerosis Self-Efficacy scale, and Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale.

Results

Path analysis indicated that those with MS who were more physically active had greater self-efficacy for function and control, and self-efficacy for function and control were associated with greater physical and psychological components of QOL.

Conclusions

Our findings support physical activity as a possible modifiable behavior for mitigating reductions of QOL by improving self-efficacy in individuals with MS.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 332 Freer Hall, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA

    Robert W. Motl Ph.D. & Erin M. Snook M.S.

Authors
  1. Robert W. Motl Ph.D.
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  2. Erin M. Snook M.S.
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Correspondence to Robert W. Motl Ph.D..

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Motl, R.W., Snook, E.M. Physical Activity, Self-Efficacy, and Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis. ann. behav. med. 35, 111–115 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12160-007-9006-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12160-007-9006-7

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