Analysis of Social Cognitive Theory in predicting Physical Activity Among Adolescents in Depok City, West Java Province, Indonesia: Structural Equation Modeling Approach

Introduction: The proportion lack of physical activity (PA) among adolescents worldwide is increasing. Many studies have analyzed the behavioral determinants of PA among adolescents, but research that analyzes the relationship of all determinants in a conceptual framework is still limited. Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) is one of the concepts that is used as the basis for developing interventions to increase PA in the population. The purpose of this study was to examine the direct and indirect effect of SCT constructs on PA among adolescents in Depok City. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted. A total of 351 high-school students (aged 14-19 years) completed the questionnaire. The PA level was measured using the Three-Day PA Recall (3DPAR) questionnaire and the data obtained were converted into METs using the Youth Compendium of Physical Activities. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was applied to analyze the relationship between SCT variables and PA in adolescents. Results: Self-efficacy had positive effects on outcome expectation (ρ=0.880, P-value 0.000), self-regulation (ρ= 0.243, P-value 0.000), social support (ρ=0.910, P-value 0.000) and PA (ρ=0.489, P-value 0.000). Self-efficacy had negative effect on perceived barriers (ρ=-0.919, P-value 0.000), Outcome expectation had positive effects on PA (ρ=0.919, P-value 0.000) and self-regulation (ρ=0.137, P-value 0.026). Self-regulation had positive effect on PA (ρ=0.188, P-value 0.004). Social support had positive effect on self-regulation (ρ=0.320, P-value 0.000). Perceived barriers had negative effect on self-regulation (ρ=-0.248, P value 0.003). Conclusion: Self-efficacy had the strongest effect on PA, but did not have indirect effect on PA through outcome expectations and self-regulation. © 2023 UPM Press. All rights reserved.