A qualitative study of perceived barriers and facilitators to interrupting sedentary behaviour among adults living with obesity

Abstract Introduction Both obesity and sedentary behaviour (SB), are associated with negative health consequences including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, certain cancers and all‐cause mortality. To date, perceived barriers and facilitators to interrupting SB in adults living with obesity have not been identified. Objective This study aimed to identify these perceived barriers and facilitators by conducting a behavioural analysis underpinned by the theoretical domains framework (TDF) and the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation‐Behaviour (COM‐B) model, to enhance knowledge and inform future intervention development. Methods A purposive and snowball sample (N=21) of adults living with obesity took part in semi‐structured interviews, guided by the TDF, to investigate perceived barriers or facilitators to interrupting SB. Transcribed interviews were inductively coded using reflexive thematic analysis. Key themes and subthemes were generated by grouping similar and recurring codes. Finally, subthemes were mapped to the TDF and COM‐B. Results Five key themes were identified, which influence SB across all domains of living. These relate to (i) physical and mental wellbeing; (ii) motivational readiness; (iii) roles, responsibilities and support; (iv) weight bias and stigma and (v) the environment. These themes were then deductively mapped to all 14 TDF domains and all six of the COM‐B constructs. Conclusion A complex interplay of individual, societal and policy factors contribute to the development and habituation of SB patterns for adults living with obesity. Factors identified in this study could assist in the development of interventions, strategies and policies designed to interrupt or reduce sedentary behaviour for this population. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.