Table 1.

Operational Definitions and Key Topics Examined for the 5 Social Cognitive Theory Constructs Explored during Focus Group Sessions with African-American (AA) Women

SCT Construct	Operational Definition	Key Topics Explored during Focus Group Discussions
Behavioral Capability	Knowledge and skill to perform physical activity (PA)	Knowledge regarding the duration and intensity of PA needed for health benefits What is meant by the terms “exercise” and “PA” Knowledge on what activities constitute as PA or exercise
Outcome Expectations	Beliefs, values, and anticipated outcomes of performing regular PA	Benefits of PA Values placed on the benefits of PA Why participants would want to perform PA
Self-efficacy	Confidence in the ability to take action and overcome barriers to perform PA	Previous experiences with PA Barriers to PA Strategies on how to overcome barriers PA that AA enjoy performing
Self-regulation	Ability to manage PA and exercise behaviors through self-monitoring, goal setting, and self-reward.	General feelings and connotations associated with the terms “exercise” and “PA Strategies on how AA women can incorporate PA into their daily schedule Self-monitoring and goal setting Rewards/reinforcements for PA
Social Support	Extent to which significant referents (family, friends, peers) approve, encourage, and/or influence performance of PA	Sources of social support for PA How to identify and find social support for PA How to incorporate social support into a PA program