Faculty Collaboration Database

mHealth text messaging for physical activity promotion in college students: a formative participatory approach. Am J Health Behav 2015 May;39(3):395-408

Date

03/06/2015

Pubmed ID

25741684

DOI

10.5993/AJHB.39.3.12

Scopus ID

2-s2.0-84925444690 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site)   22 Citations

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To develop mobile-based physical activity promotion text messages, understand users' preferences, and assess feasibility and acceptability in a college student sample.

METHODS: Five focus groups (N = 33) were conducted using a participatory approach. An Audience Response System was adopted for data collection to ensure confidentiality and for directing the discussion foci. A framework analysis of transcribed focus group discussions was conducted. Atlas. ti qualitative analysis software was used to manage the data.

RESULTS: Participants were uniformly enthusiastic about a text message-based intervention to encourage regular physical activity. They also preferred positive, supportive personally tailored messages. Participants placed a high value on messages related to establishing and monitoring realistic and achievable goals.

CONCLUSIONS: mHealth text messaging was well received. The results support the feasibility and acceptance of such an intervention.

Author List

Yan AF, Stevens P, Wang Y, Weinhardt L, Holt CL, O'Connor C, Feller T, Xie H, Luelloff S

Author

Lance S. Weinhardt MS,PhD Associate Dean for Research and Professor of Community and Behavioral Health Promotion in the Joseph. J. Zilber School of Public Health department at University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee

MESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold

Adult
Female
Focus Groups
Health Behavior
Health Promotion
Humans
Male
Motor Activity
Students
Telemedicine
Text Messaging
Universities
Young Adult