Class Discussion Questions on the Theory of Planned Behaviour in Health
1. What is the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) and its key components?
- Definition of TPB: Describe the origin and purpose of the theory in understanding health behaviour.
- Key Components:
- Attitudes: Discuss how an individual's positive or negative evaluation of performing a behaviour affects intention.
- Subjective Norms: Explore how perceived social pressures influence behaviour.
- Perceived Behavioural Control: Examine the role of self-efficacy and the perception of control over the behaviour.
- Interaction of Components: How do these components interact to shape behavioural intention?
- Real-world Examples: Identify health behaviours that can be explained using TPB.
2. Which health-related behaviour can the Theory of Planned Behaviour be applied to and why?
- Selection of Behaviour: Choose a specific health behaviour (e.g., smoking cessation, exercise adherence).
- Relevance of TPB: Justify why TPB is applicable to the chosen behaviour.
- Empirical Evidence: Present studies or evidence that support TPB's effectiveness in predicting this health behaviour.
- Cultural Considerations: Discuss how cultural variations may affect the applicability of TPB.
3. What factors might help Hasan (hypothetical case study) in changing his health behaviour based on TPB?
- Identifying Hasan's Current Situation: Briefly outline Hasan's current health behaviour.
- Attitudinal Change: What interventions could improve Hasan's attitudes towards the target behaviour?
- Influence of Subjective Norms: Suggest ways to engage Hasan's social circle to provide support and create social pressure.
- Enhancing Perceived Behavioural Control: Discuss strategies to boost Hasan’s confidence in his ability to change the behaviour.
- Long-term Strategies: What sustainable support systems could be put in place to help him maintain positive behaviour change?
4. What are the key themes in the Theory of Planned Behaviour that can aid health interventions?
- Behavioural Insights: What insights can TPB provide to health practitioners and policymakers?
- Tailoring Interventions: How can understanding TPB help in designing targeted health interventions?
- Role of Education and Awareness: Discuss the importance of increasing knowledge and awareness in fostering positive attitudes.
- Monitoring and Evaluation: How can TPB be used to assess the effectiveness of health interventions?
- Future Directions: What are the emerging themes in the research surrounding TPB that could influence future health strategies?
5. What are the strengths and weaknesses of the Theory of Planned Behaviour in understanding health behaviours?
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Strengths:
- Comprehensive Framework: Why is TPB considered a robust model for understanding a range of health behaviours?
- Predictive Power: Discuss studies that highlight TPB's ability to predict behavioural intentions accurately.
- Flexibility: How does the theory accommodate various contexts and behaviours?
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Weaknesses:
- Overemphasis on Rationality: Discuss the limitations of the theory in accounting for emotional and spontaneous behaviours.
- Cross-sectional Limitations: Talk about the criticisms related to the failure of TPB to consider long-term behaviour change.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Explore the challenges TPB faces in diverse populations and cultural contexts.
Conclusion
In summarising the discussions surrounding the Theory of Planned Behaviour, it is crucial to restate its relevance to health psychology and behaviour change strategies. Highlight the importance of understanding the interplay of attitudes, norms, and perceived control in developing effective health interventions, while recognising the model's strengths and limitations.
References
Ajzen, I. (1991). The theory of planned behavior. Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, 50(2), 179-211. https://doi.org/10.1016/0749-5978(91)90020-T
Conner, M., & Armitage, C. J. (1998). Extending the theory of planned behaviour: A review and avenues for further research. Journal of Applied Social Psychology, 28(15), 1429-1464. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1559-1816.1998.tb01685.x
Sniehotta, F. F., Presseau, J., & Araújo-Soares, V. (2014). Understanding to improve implementation of health behaviour interventions: How can the theory of planned behaviour be used to inform health behaviour change interventions? Annual Review of Public Health, 35, 1-42. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-publhealth-032013-182501
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