Physical Activity in Parents of Young African American Children: The Application of Social Cognitive Theory.

Background: Social cognitive theory (SCT) proposes that personal and environmental factors influence behavior bidirectionally. Research examining the personal and environmental factors of physical activity (PA) among African Americans (AAs) framed by SCT is scarce.

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to enhance knowledge of SCT as a foundation for health promotion and PA research, in general, and among AAs. Findings from a previous study provide exemplars for key factors and relationships in SCT.

Implications For Research And Practice: The SCT serves as a good framework for researchers studying health promotion and PA in generalamong AA parents.