Abstract
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) users are more physically active than the average Canadian. CAM includes therapy practices (e.g., acupuncture, chiropractic) not considered a regular part of primary healthcare. One reason for these higher rates of physical activity (PA) may be related to the autonomy supportive style used by many CAM practitioners. Using Deci and Ryan's Self-Determination Theory (SDT), we explored the relationship between the perceived autonomy-supportive style of CAM providers and clients' PA. Canadian CAM users (N = 227, M age = 23.4, 84% female) completed an online survey. Path analysis was used to explore the relationships in the hypothesized model. Participants perceived that autonomy-supportive practitioners provided patient-centred care. Perception of care was related to clients' views of being coached to maintain their PA by providers and coaching and motivation were positively related to clients' current engagement in PA. The hypothesized model fit the data (?2 (5, N = 227) = 12.06, p < .05, CFI = .949, RMSEA CI = .020 to .137). These cross-sectional findings highlight the importance of patient-centered care for PA engagement and warrant future tests of an SDT-framed model of PA. Specifically, an autonomy-supportive CAM practitioner-client relationship may help clients sustain PA.Acknowledgments: Supported by SSHRC Canada Research Chair Provincial Award