Self-efficacy and physical activity behavior in African Americans with hypertension

Abstract

The high incidence of hypertension among African Americans is multifactorial and includes genetic predisposition, intake of micronutrients, social and psychological variables, obesity, and physical activity patterns all playing a role (Dressler, 1996). The factor most contributory to hypertension is sedentary lifestyle. African Americans have low rates of exercise participation. An individual must feel that incorporating and maintaining physical activity into one's lifestyle must be a worthwhile task and requires both the desire and the belief in the ability to change; self-efficacy. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between self-reported physical activity self-efficacy and self-reported physical activity among African Americans with hypertension. There was a statistically significant relationship between self-reported physical activity self-efficacy and self-reported physical activity among African Americans with hypertension. Limitations of the study, implications for nursing, and recommendations for future research are discussed.