Maryam Ayad Lateef
Academic Nurse, Ministry of Health/ Anbar Health Directorate, Iraq
Aysen Kamal Mohammed Noori, Ph.D
Community Health Nursing Department /college of Nursing University of Baghdad, Iraq
ABSTRACT
Background: Physical exercise self-efficacy plays a crucial role in promoting regular physical activity, especially among adolescents. This study aimed to (1) evaluate the predictive roles of age, body mass index (BMI), and outcome expectations for exercise on physical exercise self-efficacy, and (2) examine variations in self-efficacy and outcome expectations across different BMI classifications and grade levels. Methods: A descriptive predictive correlational design was employed, involving a simple random sample of 450 female high school students from Ramadi City, Anbar Governorate, Iraq. Data were collected using a self-reported questionnaire comprising sociodemographic information, the Stages of Change Scale for Exercise (Short Form), and the Exercise Outcome Expectation Scale. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 27. Results: Age and exercising in groups were positively associated with self-efficacy for regular physical activity, while BMI had a negative predictive effect. Significant differences were observed in negative affect, exercise inconvenience, and self-efficacy across grade levels. Additionally, perceptions of rewards varied significantly across BMI categories. Conclusion: Older students demonstrated higher self-efficacy for maintaining regular physical exercise. These findings highlight the importance of targeting younger students and those with higher BMI in interventions aimed at enhancing physical activity self-efficacy and promoting positive exercise behaviors.
Keywords: Adolescents, Exercise Identity, Outcome Expectations, Physical Exercise, Self-Efficacy, Social Support.
