Determinants of exercise intention and behaviour among individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia

OBJECTIVE: The Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) has been applied to understand exercise behaviour in the general population with little consideration to individuals diagnosed with a psychiatric disability, despite physical inactivity among them presenting a significant risk of cardiovascular disease and other physical and mental health problems. This study tested the applicability of the TPB in the prediction of exercise intention and behaviour among people with schizophrenia.

METHOD: Using a cross-sectional research design, 214 participants (105 diagnosed with schizophrenia and 109 community controls) completed a questionnaire measuring TPB components, self-efficacy, health professional support and exercise behaviour.

RESULTS: Those with schizophrenia walked significantly more than the general population, but did significantly less moderate to strenuous exercise. Among those with schizophrenia, self-efficacy, perceived behavioural control and health professional support predicted 33.4% of the variance in intention to exercise. Exercise behaviour was predicted by self-efficacy and fruit and vegetable intake.

CONCLUSION: It is hoped that these findings will prompt health practitioners to respond to these low levels of exercise among individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia by providing support and exercise programmes that enhance self-efficacy.