Using the Multi-Theory Model (MTM) of Health Behavior Change to Explain Yoga Practice

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-2022

School

Health Professions

Abstract

Background: Diverse groups, including college students, are being encouraged to practice yoga. Research suggests that college students fail to attain the mental and physical benefits of yoga practice.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to utilize the fourth-generation, multi-theory model (MTM) of health behavior change to explain change regarding yoga practice of asanas, shava asana, pranayama, dhyana, yama and niyama among college students.

Method: This cross-sectional study relied on a quota sample of students 18 years and older attending Jackson State University, a historically black college in Jackson, Mississippi, United States.

Measures: A 36-item face and content valid instrument was used to collect data. Stepwise multiple regression was used to analyze the survey data for identifying the best possible predictors of yoga practice. A statistical significance level of 0.05 was set a priori.

Results: A total of 70 participants, mean age 28.62 years (SD, 6.11), predominately female (84%) and black (87%) completed the survey. The initiation model constructs- changes in the physical environment (β = 3.99, P = .002) and behavioral confidence (β = 0.331, P = .008)-were significant, explaining 40% of the variability in the dependent variable. Practice change was statistically significant (F1,65 =7.569; P = .0001; adjusted R2 = 0.460) for the maintenance model, explaining 46% of the variability.

Conclusion: The MTM model of health behavior change is effective for explaining the intent to initiate and maintain yoga behavior among college students.

Publication Title

Alternative Therapies In Health & Medicine

Volume

28

Issue

1

First Page

12

Last Page

17

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