A field experiment testing the utility of regulatory fit messages for promoting physical activity Journal Article


Authors: Latimer, A. E.; Rivers, S. E.; Rench, T. A.; Katulak, N. A.; Hicks, A.; Hodorowski, J. K.; Higgins, E. T.; Salovey, P.
Article Title: A field experiment testing the utility of regulatory fit messages for promoting physical activity
Abstract: Guided by regulatory focus theory, we examined whether messages tailored to individuals' promotion- or prevention-goal orientation (regulatory focus) elicit positive thoughts and feelings about physical activity and increase participation in physical activity. Inactive participants (N = 206) were assigned randomly to receive either promotion-focused or prevention-focused messages encouraging physical activity. Two weeks after message exposure, we assessed participants' thoughts and feelings about physical activity and physical activity behavior. Tailored messages that fit individuals' regulatory focus led to greater physical activity participation and more positive feelings than non-fit messages, particularly in the promotion-focused condition. Furthermore, positive retrospective feelings about physical activity mediated the effects of the tailored messages on behavior. These findings provide support for regulatory focus theory and direction for enhancing the effectiveness of messages encouraging physical activity and other health behaviors. © 2007 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Keywords: physical activity; cancer information service; persuasion; message tailoring; regulatory focus
Journal Title: Journal of Experimental Social Psychology
Volume: 44
Issue: 3
ISSN: 0022-1031
Publisher: Elsevier Inc.  
Date Published: 2008-05-01
Start Page: 826
End Page: 832
Language: English
DOI: 10.1016/j.jesp.2007.07.013
PROVIDER: scopus
PMCID: PMC2699291
PUBMED: 19543443
DOI/URL:
Notes: --- - "Cited By (since 1996): 13" - "Export Date: 17 November 2011" - "CODEN: JESPA" - "Source: Scopus"
Altmetric
Citation Impact
BMJ Impact Analytics
MSK Authors
  1. Althea Hicks
    2 Hicks