Behavioural Aspects of Active Living

Improving participation in physical activity and reducing sedentary behaviour are important public health endeavours. As physical activity, and to a certain extent sedentary behaviour, involves a series of voluntary behavioural choices for an individual, it is important to recognise the impact of motivation and ability in active living. Furthermore, to accurately assess patterns of participation in physical activity and sedentary behaviours, and examine the impact of physical activity interventions on participation and health outcomes, it is necessary to accurately measure participation in these behaviours. A socio-ecological framework identifies intrapersonal and interpersonal aspects of behaviour as an important part of overall population behaviour and activity.


This unit will take a psychosocial approach to active living. Students will be encouraged to (1) compare and contrast psychosocial theories of health behaviour in relation to physical activity and sedentary behaviour. These theories will be evaluated in light of their relevance to a range of target populations and their ability to guide interventions for health promotion; (2) Evaluate methods to measure participation in physical activity and sedentary behaviour and the apply these measures in a variety of contexts and population groups; (3) Develop strategies to maximise the psychological health benefits of physical activity.