Influence of social cognitive factors on physical activity among breast cancer survivors

Abstract

Purpose: To measure the degree of physical activity among breast cancer survivors and to identify how it was influenced by social cognitive factors, as defined in Bandura's social cognitive theory. Methods: A total of 128 breast cancer survivors were recruited for this descriptive study and answered the survey questionnaire. The collected data covered general characteristics, physical activity, and social cognitive factors, such as self-efficacy, outcome expectations, goal setting, and socio-structural factors (social support and negative impact of cancer). Data collection was conducted from July to October 2017. Results: The degree of physical activity among breast cancer survivors was moderate. The participants' level of physical activity differed according to their Body Mass Index (BMI) and type of surgery. Physical activity was significantly correlated with exercise goal setting, exercise self-efficacy, outcome expectations, and family support. Exercise goal setting (β =.55, p