Reconceptualizing health behavior theories: a social-cognitive perspective

This research article provides a critical analysis of prominent health behavior theories, specifically focusing on Self-Efficacy Theory, Health Belief Model, Theory of Planned Behavior, and Protection Motivation Theory. It aims to reconceptualize the processes through which individuals adopt precautionary strategies, modify harmful health habits, and sustain beneficial behaviors, while also refraining from risky practices. Through a social-cognitive lens, the article introduces a causal model known as the Health Action Process Approach. This model underscores the significance of expectancies and incorporates self-regulatory processes during the maintenance phase of health behaviors. [NPID: Health action process approach, theory of planned behavior, behavior theories, health belief model, self-regulation]

Year: 1992

Reference: Schwarzer, R. (1992). Self-efficacy in the adoption and maintenance of health behaviors: Theoretical approaches and a new model. In Self-efficacy: Thought control of action (pp. 217–243). Hemisphere Publishing Corp.