• Vicki R Voskuil and Lorraine B Robbins.
• Michigan State University College of Nursing, East Lansing, Michigan, USA.
• J Adv Nurs. 2015 Sep 1; 71 (9): 2002-19.

AimTo report an analysis of the concept of youth physical activity self-efficacy.BackgroundPhysical activity self-efficacy is a concept that has been frequently examined as a key variable in research aimed at increasing physical activity among youth. Different conceptual definitions and empirical measures indicate the need for concept analysis to advance knowledge of the concept.DesignRodger's evolutionary method of concept analysis was used to collect and analyse the data. Social cognitive theory guided the analysis.Data SourcesThe PubMed, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PsychInfo, Educational Resources Information Center and Sociological Abstracts databases were searched for publications from 1990-2013. Search terms included self-efficacy, physical activity, youth, children, adolescent and teen.Review MethodsA total of 276 articles were identified. Fifty-five articles meeting inclusion criteria were included in the review. Data were analysed with particular focus on the attributes, antecedents and consequences of the concept.ResultsDefining attributes of physical activity self-efficacy were identified as personal cognition/perception, self-appraisal process, related action, power to choose physical activity, dynamic state and bi-dimensional nature. Antecedents and consequences were consistent with social cognitive theory. Youth physical activity self-efficacy is defined as a youth's belief in his/her capability to participate in physical activity and to choose physical activity despite existing barriers.ConclusionsThis concept analysis provided an in-depth analysis and clarification of youth physical activity self-efficacy. Future research should be aimed at establishing consistency in conceptual definitions and empirical measurement to further develop the concept across disciplines.© 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

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