Question

Select two individual health behavior theories. Compare and contrast the two theories. Explain how each theory works to include its benefits and challenges. Describe a public health issue that could be addressed by each theory. For the theories you have identified: Define each theory to include a brief overview of the history. Explain how each theory works by using a public health issue as an example. Discuss the benefits and challenges of using each theory. Compare and contrast the theories.

Answer 1

ANSWER- 1) Learning Theories / Classical Conditioning

Based on the principles of classical conditioning , learning theories takes into account the previous responses individuals had "learned" due to similar stimuli. Desired behaviors stem from positive experiences , associations and thus response to stimuli. This theory allows reinforcing behaviors by way of rewards , but they are dependent on continual rewards- the precise problem in drug addiction and abuse.

social cognitive theory - Through a variety of mediums , the social cognitive theory states that individual observations affect behavior by two modes of modeling.

• direct modeling
• symbolic modeling

​​​​​​​2) Planned behavior theory

this theory recognizes that individuals act rationally and emphasizes the power of individual's intention to induce behavior governed by three principles;

• Attitudes
• subjective norms
• perceived behavioral control