Physical Activity, Self-Efficacy, and Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis

BACKGROUND: Quality of life (QOL) is compromised among individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). Self-efficacy and physical activity have been positively associated with QOL in persons with MS, and based on a social cognitive perspective, the relationship between physical activity and QOL might be indirect and accounted for by self-efficacy. PURPOSE: We tested the hypothesis that physical activity would be indirectly associated with QOL through a pathway that included self-efficacy. METHODS: Participants were 133 individuals with a definite diagnosis of MS who completed the Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire, Multiple Sclerosis Self-Efficacy scale, and Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale. RESULTS: Path analysis indicated that those with MS who were more physically active had greater self-efficacy for function and control, and self-efficacy for function and control were associated with greater physical and psychological components of QOL. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings support physical activity as a possible modifiable behavior for mitigating reductions of QOL by improving self-efficacy in individuals with MS.