Exploring Gender Differences in Predicting Physical Activity Among Elementary Aged Children: An Application of the Integrated Behavioral Model

Abstract

Background: The integrated behavioral model (IBM) is a new and emerging theory in the field of health promotion and health education, and more applications are needed to test the usefulness of the model for research and practice. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to operationalize the IBM as it relates to physical activity (PA) among children and explore potential gender differences within the model. Methods: A convenience sample of 261 elementary children completed an instrument evaluating constructs of the IBM. Two rounds of step-wise multiple regression analysis determined how the core constructs of the IBM predicted intentions toward PA and how intentions and the parental environment predicted PA. Results: Perceived behavioral control, attitudes, and perceived norms significantly predicted intention toward PA for both boys (adjusted R² = 0.704) and girls (adjusted R² = 0.478). Intentions and parental environment also significantly predicted PA among boys (adjusted R² = 0.178) and girls (adjusted R² = 0.199). Discussion: The IBM appears to be a strong theoretical framework for predicting PA among elementary children; however, differences between what factors motivate boys and girls to be PA were found. Translation to Health Education Practice: Health Educators can use information from this study to develop gender-specific interventions promoting physical activity among children.