Behavioural change theories
Behavioural Change Theories
Behavioural change theories (/bɪˈheɪvjərəl tʃeɪndʒ ˈθɪəriːz/) are psychological models that aim to explain why changes in human behaviour occur. These theories are often used in public health interventions to promote positive health behaviours and discourage harmful ones.
Etymology
The term "behavioural change theories" is derived from the words "behaviour", which comes from the late Middle English word "behavour" meaning conduct, and "change", which comes from the Old French "changier". The word "theory" originates from the Greek word "theoria", which means contemplation or speculation.
Related Terms
- Behaviour: The way in which one acts or conducts oneself, especially towards others.
- Change: Make or become different.
- Theory: A supposition or a system of ideas intended to explain something.
- Psychology: The scientific study of the human mind and its functions.
- Public Health: The health of the population as a whole, especially as monitored, regulated, and promoted by the state.
- Intervention: The action or process of intervening.
Types of Behavioural Change Theories
There are several types of behavioural change theories, including:
- Health Belief Model: This model suggests that people's beliefs about health problems, perceived benefits of action and barriers to action, and self-efficacy explain engagement (or lack of engagement) in health-promoting behaviour.
- Theory of Planned Behaviour: This theory posits that behaviour is determined by intentions, attitudes (beliefs about a behaviour), and subjective norms (beliefs about others' attitudes toward a behaviour).
- Transtheoretical Model: This model proposes that individuals move through six stages of change: precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, maintenance, and termination.
- Social Cognitive Theory: This theory suggests that learning occurs in a social context with a dynamic and reciprocal interaction of the person, environment, and behaviour.
Applications
Behavioural change theories are used in various fields, including public health, psychology, and social work. They are often used to design interventions to promote health behaviours like regular exercise, healthy eating, and cessation of smoking. They are also used to discourage harmful behaviours such as substance abuse and risky sexual behaviours.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Behavioural change theories
- Wikipedia's article - Behavioural change theories
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