Savanna Wingate
1, Eveleen Sng
1, Paul D. Loprinzi
1*1 Physical Activity Epidemiology Laboratory, Exercise Psychology Laboratory, Department of Health, Exercise Science and Recreation Management, The University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
*Corresponding Author: The University of Mississippi, Director of Research Engagement – Jackson Heart Study Vanguard Center of Oxford, Director, Physical Activity Epidemiology Laboratory, Director, Exercise Psychology Laboratory, Department of Health, Exercise Science, and Recreation Management, 229 Turner Center, University, MS 38677, Phone: 662-915-5521; Fax: 662-915-5525;, Email:
pdloprin@olemiss.edu
Abstract
Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the extent, if any, that the association between socio-ecological parameters and physical activity may be influenced by common method bias (CMB).Methods: This study took place between February and May of 2017 at a Southeastern University in the United States. A randomized controlled experiment was employed among 119 young adults.Participants were randomized into either group 1 (the group we attempted to minimize CMB)or group 2 (control group). In group 1, CMB was minimized via various procedural remedies,such as separating the measurement of predictor and criterion variables by introducing a time lag (temporal; 2 visits several days apart), creating a cover story (psychological), and approximating measures to have data collected in different media (computer-based vs. paper and pencil) and different locations to control method variance when collecting self-report measures from the same source. Socio-ecological parameters (self-efficacy; friend support; family support)and physical activity were self-reported.Results: Exercise self-efficacy was significantly associated with physical activity. This association(β = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.33-1.1; P = 0.001) was only observed in group 2 (control), but not in group 1 (experimental group) (β = 0.03; 95% CI: -0.57-0.63; P = 0.91). The difference in these coefficients (i.e., β = 0.74 vs. β = 0.03) was statistically significant (P = 0.04).Conclusion: Future research in this field, when feasible, may wish to consider employing procedural and statistical remedies to minimize CMB.