Objective: This study examined health motivation and organizational workplace factors associated with health promoting and health risk behaviors in Army and civilian health care personnel.
Design: A descriptive correlational/comparative design was used to identify factors influencing behaviors in health care personnel.
Population, Sample, Setting, and Years: The total sample included 610 health care providers working in hospitals of 300-500 beds. Subgroups included Army reservists (n = 199), active duty Army personnel (n = 218), and civilians (n = 193). The study was conducted between 1998-2001.
Variables Studied Together: Differences and relationships were examined among the three groups in terms of demographics, health promoting behaviors, health risk behaviors, health self-motivation, workplace interpersonal relationships (social support, reciprocity, and conflict), and workplace organizational culture.
Methods: Questionnaires were distributed during work hours with data collection points available for return of completed questionnaires. Data were analyzed through ANOVA, Pearson product moment correlations, and multiple regression analyses.
Findings: Civilians were found to be the oldest group by age, with significantly higher body weights and body mass indices, and lower scores for physical activity and self-motivation. Active duty Army personnel practiced higher levels of physical activity that were significantly related to self-motivation, social support, and a hierarchical organizational culture. Weekly alcohol consumption and smoking were highest in Army reservists who also had the lowest scores for social support and the highest scores for conflict in workplace relationships.
Conclusions: The most significant factors contributing to the adoption of health promoting behaviors included internal self-motivation, social support, and reciprocity. Organizational workplace cultures were inconsistent predictors of health promotion.
Implications: Employers and health care professionals need to consider the effects of social support and internal motivation as health promotion programs are designed for employees. Team efforts, competitions, rewards, organizational commitment, and support are essential to the success of these programs.
Back to Health Promotion and Physical Fitness in Military and Civilian Personnel: Preparation for Homeland Defense
Back to 14th International Nursing Research Congress
Sigma Theta Tau International
10-12 July 2003