Loading...
A commentary on current practice in mediating variable analyses in behavioural nutrition and physical activity
Cerin, Ester MacKinnon, David P.
Cerin, Ester
MacKinnon, David P.
Author
Abstract
Objective
To critique current practice in, and provide recommendations for, mediating variable analyses (MVA) of nutrition and physical activity behaviour change.
Strategy
Theory-based behavioural nutrition and physical activity interventions aim at changing mediating variables that are hypothesized to be responsible for changes in the outcome of interest. MVA are useful because they help to identify the most promising theoretical approaches, mediators and intervention components for behaviour change. However, the current literature suggests that MVA are often inappropriately conducted, poorly understood and inadequately presented. Main problems encountered in the published literature are explained and suggestions for overcoming weaknesses of current practice are proposed.
Conclusion
The use of the most appropriate, currently available methods of MVA, and a correct, comprehensive presentation and interpretation of their findings, is of paramount importance for understanding how obesity can be treated and prevented.
Keywords
mediation models, logistic regression, behaviour change
Date
2009
Type
Journal article
Journal
Public Health Nutrition
Book
Volume
12
Issue
8
Page Range
1182-1188
Article Number
ACU Department
Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research
Faculty of Health Sciences
Faculty of Health Sciences
Collections
Relation URI
Source URL
Event URL
Open Access Status
License
All rights reserved
File Access
Controlled