Psychosocial determinants of attending yoga classes: An application of the theory of planned behavior
by Eggleston, Brandon, Ph.D., INDIANA UNIVERSITY, 2008, 165 pages; 3344775

Abstract:

The practice of yoga dates back 5,000 years and provides many physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual benefits for individuals that maintain a regular practice (NCCAM, 2007). Yoga may be a form of serious leisure: a voluntary activity that provides a sense of meaning and purpose in an individual's life, and can increase levels of well-being (Stebbins, 2004; Heo, 2007). The purpose of this study was to apply the Theory of Planned Behavior to understand intention to attend at least one yoga class each week for the next three months among individuals who have been attending yoga classes for at least three months (n = 157), and to observe if yoga is a form of serious leisure for individuals who attend at least one yoga class each week. Analysis predicting intention from global constructs of the Theory of Planned Behavior yielded a multiple correlation of 0.62 with beta weights for attitude (0.13, p < 0.05), subjective norm (0.06, ns), and perceived behavioral control (0.56, p < 0.01). Salient factors related to stronger intention to attend at least one yoga class each week included the facilitators of having time; having the money; a good studio location; and believing they will feel better and the advantages of believing that attending will improve flexibility; leading to feeling relaxed; and making one feeling centered. Additionally, perception of yoga as a serious leisure was significantly greater (p < 0.01) for individuals with a self-identified spiritual and committed yoga practice. Perception of yoga as serious leisure did not significantly contribute to life satisfaction. Implications for encouraging a regular yoga practice will be discussed regarding salient circumstances and consequences of attending at least one yoga class each week for the next three months.

 
AdvisersSusan E. Middlestadt; Alice K. Lindeman
SchoolINDIANA UNIVERSITY
SourceDAI/B 70-02, p. , Apr 2009
Source TypeDissertation
SubjectsPublic health; Kinesiology
Publication Number3344775
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