Differences in Cognitive and Behavioral Processes of Change by Stages of Physical Activity in Adolescents

The current study identified the differences in stages
of physical activity and in cognitive and behavioral processes of
change by those stages among a random sample of Korean
adolescents. A total of 671 adolescents randomly selected from
junior high and high schools in Seoul were surveyed. Two Korean
version questionnaires were used to identify the stage of exercise
behavior and the processes of change construct of adolescents: Stage
of Physical Activity Change Questionnaire, and Processes of Change
Questionnaire. Results indicated that physical activity pattern of
Korean adolescents were different by each stage of physical activity.
Female adolescents were more likely to be in the precontemplation
and contemplation stage, whereas males were more likely to be in
the action and maintenance. In addition, significant differences were
revealed in use of processes of change constructs through stages of
physical activity. The use of cognitive and behavioral strategies
increased form pre-contemplation through maintenance. This study
provides some insights into the physical activity habits and the
cognitive and behavioral strategies of increasing physical activity
levels in the adolescent population.