Self-Efficacy is Associated with Health Behaviors Related to Obesity and Cardiovascular Risk among Hispanic/Latinx and Somali Immigrants to the United States

TL;DR

This study shows that confidence in healthy behaviors is linked to better diet and more physical activity in Hispanic/Latinx and Somali immigrants in the U.S.

Contribution

The study applies self-efficacy theory to immigrant populations, showing its relevance for health behaviors in these communities.

Findings

Higher confidence in healthy eating was linked to healthier snacking and less soda consumption.

Greater confidence in physical activity was associated with more self-reported physical activity.

Self-efficacy theory appears applicable and measurable in these immigrant populations.

Abstract

Self-efficacy theory proposes that confidence to engage in a health behavior is associated with engaging in that specific behavior. Most research examining self-efficacy has been conducted with white young adult populations. This secondary analysis examined the association of self-efficacy (i.e., confidence) for healthy eating and physical activity in two immigrant communities.

At enrollment into the Healthy Immigrant Community study, a clinical weight management and cardiovascular risk reduction intervention set in southeastern [state], 475 participants completed assessments about their confidence for healthy eating and physical activity. Measurements also included self-reports of dietary quality and intake, physical activity, quality of life, and biometric assessments. Study materials were available in English, Spanish, and Somali.

In total, 450 adults (Hispanic/Latinx = 267; Somali = 183) completed measures at baseline and were included for analysis. Their average age was 45 years (range 18–87) and 59% were female. Confidence for healthy eating was significantly associated with self-report of eating healthy snacks (p = < 0.0001) and less consumption of high-calorie drinks (p = 0.02) and regular soda (p = < 0.0001). Confidence to be physically active was significantly associated with more self-reported physical activity (p = < 0.01).

Confidence to eat healthy and be physically active appears to be associated with having a healthier diet and higher levels of physical activity. Given the large sample size and strength of the associations, it also appears that the theoretical model of self-efficacy can be effectively measured and applied within these immigrant populations. Self-efficacy theory may be useful in understanding potential mediating mechanisms when designing future interventions with immigrant communities.

NCT05136339; April 23, 2022

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