Assessment of Attitude, Subjective Norm and Perceived Behavioral Control on Physical Activity of Alcoholics Using Structural Equation Modeling

Abstract

Background: Structural equation modeling (SEM) is a series of statistical methods that allow complex relationships between one or more independent variables and one or more dependent variables. Objective: The study aimed at determining the practice of physical activity using structural equation modeling as statistical approach. Methods:This cross-sectional study was conducted from August to November 2018 amongst recuperating alcoholics receiving rehabilitation in Asumbi treatment center of Homabay County, Kenya. Structural equation modeling determined the evidence of physical activity amongst recuperating alcoholics. Results: Structural model parameter estimation indicated that attitude was a better predictor (β=0.62, p<0.001, n=207), followed by subjective norm (β=0.60, p<0.001, n=207) then perceived behavioral control (β=0.55, p<0.001, n=207) was indirectly and directly predicted. Conclusion: Structural Equation Modeling is a powerful tool for causal inference among the observed and latent variables.