Social support and physical activity in over the road truck drivers
Abstract
With sedentary lifestyles at the heart of the obesity epidemic, finding ways to
increase physical activity is imperative. Certain populations may encounter unique
barriers to increasing physical activity, such as over the road truck drivers (OTRTD). In
2006, a U.S. Department of Transportation survey showed that 90% of truck drivers
were overweight and 50% were obese, leading to an increased prevalence in chronic
health conditions. Current research indicates a limited number of studies that have
focused on decreasing weight and increasing physical activity in OTRTDs. The purpose
of this study was to determine if there was a relationship between social support and the
level of physical activity in over the road truck drivers.
Pender's Health Promotion Model(HPM) was used as the theoretical framework
for this study. The HPM identifies individual characteristics and experiences that affect
subsequent health actions, such as exercise and social support. Concepts such as
interpersonal influences, situational influences, and support with committing to a plan of
action all use social support to increase health outcomes. Over the road truck drivers
can benefit from using health-promoting behaviors due to the nature of their work
environment.
A quantitative descriptive correlational research design was used for this study.
A convenience sample of 42 participants was obtained from two different truck stop
locations in the Midwest. A demographic Truck Driver Questionnaire, the Norbeck
Social Support Questionnaire (NSSQ), and the International Physical Activity
Questionnaire (IPAQ) were administered. Data were analyzed using descriptive and
inferential statistics.
Results indicated that there was no significant correlation between total social
support and total physical activity scores (p=.840). No significant correlations were
demonstrated between the NSSQ emotional support subscale and the IPAQ total
physical activity score (p= .652) or the NSSQ tangible support of the NSSQ and the
IPAQ total physical activity score (p= .696.) Although the results of the study were not
statistically significant, there are important implications for practice and research.
Providers need to address the unique barriers encountered by OTRTDs and discuss
more creative and helpful ways to increase levels of physical activity. Future studies
should look at more appropriate tools for this population and take into account the
environment in which the study takes place. A qualitative study could provide more
insight into the perceptions of exercise and healthy eating, and the specific challenges
facing OTRTDs.
Subject
Truck drivers - Nutrition
Truck drivers - Family relationships
Truck drivers - Health and hygiene
Permanent Link
http://digital.library.wisc.edu/1793/54082Description
A Clinical Paper submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Nursing-Family Nurse Practitioner