Using the Multitheory Model to Predict Initiation and Sustenance of Physical Activity Behavior Among Osteopathic Medical Students

Abstract Context The multitheory model (MTM) is a newly developed fourth-generation theoretical framework that addresses both initiation and sustenance of health behavior change. Studies have shown that the MTM is efficacious in predicting a range of health behaviors. Objective To assess the utility of the MTM in predicting initiation and sustenance of physical activity behavior among osteopathic medical students. Methods In this cross-sectional study, a volunteer convenience sample was recruited from an osteopathic medical school student population at a university in the southeastern region of the United States. An online survey was used to collect self-reported data on sociodemographic information and MTM constructs. Multiple linear regression using the enter method for modeling was performed to determine the predictive ability of the MTM constructs. Results Of the 135 participants, 52.6% were women and 67.7% were white. The initiation model explained 25.8% of the variance (adjusted R2=0.238). Behavioral confidence was a statistically significant predictor of initiation of physical activity behavior change. The sustenance model explained 41.7% of the variance (adjusted R2=0.402). Changes in social environment and emotional transformation were statistically significant predictors of sustenance of physical activity behavior change. Conclusion The MTM appears to be a robust theoretical framework for designing behavior change interventions to increase physical activity among osteopathic medical students.