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The theory of planned behavior: a review of its applications to health-related behaviors
This review aims to assess the applications of Ajzen’s theory of planned behavior within the health domain, with a specific focus on its ability to explain and predict health-related behaviors. Methodologically, the review synthesizes data primarily from Current Contents (Social and Behavioral Sciences and Clinical Medicine) spanning from 1985 to the present, alongside peer-reviewed articles referenced in these publications. The findings reveal that the theory is effective in elucidating intention, with an average R² of .41. Key variables influencing this variation include attitudes towards the behavior and perceived behavioral control. When predicting actual behavior, the theory maintains an average R² of .34, with intention being the predominant predictor; however, perceived behavioral control significantly enhances prediction in approximately half of the studies examined. In conclusion, the model demonstrates substantial efficacy in explaining intentions, with perceived behavioral control being equally critical as attitude across various health-related behavior categories. Nonetheless, the model’s effectiveness is not uniform across all health-related behaviors.
Year: 1996
