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European Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience

Open Access 07-05-2024 | Original Paper

Advising activity—knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors regarding the recommendation of physical activity in clinical psychologists

Authors: Moritz Bruno Petzold, Felix Betzler, Jens Plag, Andreas Ströhle, Antonia Bendau

Published in: European Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience

Abstract

Background

Regular physical activity comes with multiple benefits for physical but also mental health and can be a pivotal element in the prevention and treatment of mental disorders. Clinical psychologists play an important role in supporting their patients in increasing physical activity levels. Up to date, there is only little research on recommendation of physical activity in psychologists worldwide and no such research for psychologists in Germany. Aim of this study was to assess knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and behaviors regarding physical activity in psychologists in Germany.

Methods

We assessed knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and behaviors regarding physical activity among a sample of clinical psychologists in Germany using the “Exercise in Mental Illness Questionnaire-German” (EMIQ-G) in a cross-sectional online survey.

Results

454 participants were included in the analysis. Participants reported moderate levels of knowledge and self-confidence in recommending physical activity. Only 14% of the participants received formal training regarding physical activity recommendation. Most participants recommended physical activity to their patients, primarily through personal discussions and referrals to exercise professionals. About one third did not give any recommendations regarding intensity. Strength training was only recommended by a minority.

Conclusion

There is a need for greater integration of information and instructions regarding the recommendation of physical activity in the treatment of people with mental disorders in the training and further education of psychologists.

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Title: Advising activity—knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors regarding the recommendation of physical activity in clinical psychologists
Authors: Moritz Bruno Petzold
Felix Betzler
Jens Plag
Andreas Ströhle
Antonia Bendau
Publication date: 07-05-2024
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: European Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience
Print ISSN: 0940-1334
Electronic ISSN: 1433-8491
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00406-024-01819-7

2024 ASCO Annual Meeting

Springer Medicine

Advising activity—knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors regarding the recommendation of physical activity in clinical psychologists

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

2024 ASCO Annual Meeting

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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