Public Health Perspectives on Motivation and Behavior Change in Physical Activity

Public Health Perspectives on Motivation and Behavior Change in Physical Activity

This chapter addresses behavior change for physical activity, mainly from a public health perspective. We briefly cover established concepts, theories and frameworks before outlining some important contemporary approaches, identifying knowledge gaps, and suggesting future research directions. Physical activity is best seen within a movement continuum ranging from sedentary behavior to highly vigorous activity. Such diverse movement behaviors take place in various contexts. Moreover, it is argued that conventional social cognitive theories of motivation may not be sufficient for understanding physical activity from a public health standpoint. Wider social and environmental considerations are also required in adopting an integrative theoretical approach and promoting physical activity at the population level. In addition, we need to recognize that people operate both reflective and more automatic forms of motivation, the latter requiring greater understanding in the physical activity context. Understanding notions of habit, and the nudging of behavior, are important considerations in this field. A team science approach is required to shift population levels of physical activity, with psychologists playing an important role concerning behavior change.

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