Date Approved

2000

Graduate Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Nursing (M.S.N.)

Degree Program

College of Nursing

Abstract

The theoretical framework used for this study was based on Prochaska and DiClemente’s (1983) Transtheoretical Model. The purpose of the study was to determine if there is a relationship between stage of change (pre-contemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, maintenance) and perceived self-efficacy regarding exercise among low risk pregnant women. Data was obtained through a survey of 140 low risk pregnant women from two private obstetricians’ offices. Participants were between 18 and 43 years old and primarily Caucasian (75%) and high school educated (85%). Each participant was successfully categorized into a stages of change based on their reported exercise behavior. The levels of self-efficacy for each of the five situations within each of the self-efficacy groups were determined. One-way ANOVA showed self-efficacy was significantly related to stage of change F (3, 127) = 10.55, p < 001, but post Hoc Scheflfe’ test revealed that the action stage was the only stage significantly different from subjects in all other stages. Study findings partially supported the notion that self-efficacy may be an important indicator of current and future exercise behavior during pregnancy.

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