Examining the Model of the Relationship between the Affecting Individual, Interpersonal and Cognitive-Social Factors with elderly Sports Participation

This study aimed to assess the relationship between the Individual, interpersonal and cognitive-social factors with sports participation based on Bandura ' social-cognitive theory. Based on the proposed model individual and interpersonal factors have failed to determine the sports participation behavior directly, but it is determined by the mediating role of the social-cognitive theory.

1067 aged sample group consisted of seven provinces were selected using quota sampling method. The research instrument was a researcher-made questionnaire including some items of sports participation, enjoyment of physical activity, self-efficacy, outcome expectancy, social support, beliefs and attitudes towards exercise, social interaction, mental health and physical health.

Validity and reliability of this questionnaire was verified using factor analysis. Structural equation method was used for data analysis. Results showed that the model fits the data well (χ = 3/17, RMSE = 0.04).

Therefore, the results confirmed the important role of cognitive-social domains in the relationship between individual, interpersonal and cognitive-social factors and sports participation.