Self-efficacy and physical activity in children with congenital heart disease: Is there a relationship?

Purpose. This study examined the relationship between self-efficacy and physical activity in 10- to 14-year-old children with congenital heart disease. Design and Methods. Cross-sectional study using self-report instruments. Results. In 84 participants, self-efficacy scores were similar to those published for healthy adolescents, 30.8 as compared with 29.4. Physical activity participation as prescribed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention was low (38%). Self-efficacy scores were moderately correlated with physical activity participation (r = .47; p < .001). Practice Implications. Interventions are needed to increase physical activity in this high-risk group. Interventions that focus on self-efficacy may be particularly helpful given the link between self-efficacy and physical activity.