Gender differences in social cognitive factors and physical activity of Kosovо college students

Abstract

Aim: Despite the numerous physical and psychological benefits of physical activity, the prevalence of achieving physical activity recommendations decreases in college students. Therefore, this study was conducted to identify the factors that influence physical activity in male and female college students. Methods: A quantitative, transversal research design was used to examine the factors that affect physical activity in male and female Kosovo students. The research was conducted on a sample of 973 (459 males and 514 females) students randomly selected from several faculties of the State University of Kosovo. Participants completed measures of physical activity, perceived benefits/barriers to PA, PA self-efficacy, parental support, peer support, and PA enjoyment. Results: Based on the obtained data, male students perceive a higher level of PA self-efficacy and social support from friends, they perceive more benefits from exercising, less barriers, and enjoy physical activity more. A higher percentage of male students have the recommended physical activity level as compared to female students. With the male students, it is the predictor variables that have statistically significant influences on the physical activity PA self-efficacy (OR = 1.61, 95% CI = 1.22-2.13, p = 0.001) and perceived benefits (OR = 1.03, 95% CI = 1.01-1.05, p = 0.003). For female students, a statistically significant influence on the physical activity was presented with the predictor variables of PA self-efficacy (OR = 1.54, 95% CI = 1.17-2.04, p = 0.002), perceived barriers (OR = 0.96, 95% CI = 0.93-0.99, p = 0.010), and perceived benefits (OR = 1.03, 95% CI = 1.01-1.05, p = 0.001). Conclusions: Our study results suggest that future studies should develop a school-based program that focus on PA self-efficacy, given that this has the largest influence on college students' PA, because colleges and universities are an appropriate setting to promote sports activities.