Issues Related to Participation in Worksite Health Promotion: A Preliminary Study

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Purpose.: The purpose of this study was to identify characteristics associated with participation in worksite-based health promotion activities. Design.: Follow-up interviews were used to identify demographic, attitudinal, and behavioral differences among three employee groups. Reasons employees chose not to participate in health promotion activities were also explored. Setting.: All respondents were employed at a large midwestern university and were eligible to participate in free onsite health fairs and health promotion programs. Subjects.: A stratified random sample of 89 nonparticipants, health fair participants, and behavior change program participants was interviewed. Measures.: The interview was comprised of questions related to demographic information, personal health habits, physical activity, perceived health status, perceived self-efficacy, worksite norms, health promoting lifestyle factors, and knowledge about health promotion activities. Results.: ANOVA and chi-squared comparisons revealed few group differences. Graduate students and employees with advanced degrees were most likely to take part in health fairs. Behavior change program participants were older, clerical-technical staff members, and women. Faculty members were least likely to participate. A lack of time was the most often cited reason for nonparticipation. Conclusions.: The study was retrospective and the analyses limited due to low statistical power. The results suggest that different groups of employees are attracted to different types of health promotion activities.