Ethnic Differences Among Correlates of Physical Activity in Women

Purpose: This study investigated differences between two ethnic minority groups on five hypothesized correlates of physical activity (beliefs about the value of physical activity, normative modeling, perceived barriers, outcome expectations, and self-efficacy).

Design: A cross-sectional sample consisting of 246 African American and Hispanic women 40 to 70 years of age was used. Multivariate analysis of covariance including interactions with education and income was used.

Results: A three-way interaction (ethnicity by education by income) was significant for perceived barriers. In addition, a two-way interaction (education by income) was significant for normative modeling.

Conclusions: Ethnic differences by education and income were associated with some correlates of physical activity; therefore, it is important to consider this diversity when designing physical-activity interventions for minority women.