Hsci 6240 - Midterm Exam
Hsci 6240 - Midterm Exam
Hsci 6240 - Midterm Exam
Midterm Exam
2. Discuss the 3 parts to a theory and explain those parts in relation to a specific model
or theory (such as the HBM, SCT, TTM, TPB, etc.). Use only one model or theory
to explain the parts. (Hint HBM-SCT)
The Health Belief Model and Social Cognitive Theory (HBM-SCT) is a theoretical model
that used to explain and predict individuals’ behaviors; going into detail as to how we act,
why we act the way we do, and most importantly, who and what impact our behaviors.
Theories are what help explain what happens and why; this can be interactions between
people, within people, and even at a community level. There are three main parts that
construct a theory: concept, construct, and variable. A concept is a certain belief in
something. For example, an individual can have a concept or belief about vaccines. A
Construct explains the perceived severity of that belief. For example, this same individual
may believe that vaccines can cause harm to their child. A variable would be a
measurable assessment of these beliefs. For example, this individual would take a health
literacy exam and score low because of her incorrect perceptions about vaccines. Within
public health the HBM-SCT is used to guide health promotion and disease prevention
programs. This model can take multiple concepts and constructs from theories and create
a guideline for applying these programs.
3
Midterm Exam
4. Describe how one person can influence self-efficacy in others. (Hint HBM-SCT and
TTM)
Self-efficacy measured the level of an individuals’ confidence to perform a behavior
successfully; it is used within many behavioral theories because it directly related to
whether a person performs a behavior. There are many factors that influence self-
efficacy: mastery experience, vicarious experience (modeling), somatic or emotional, and
verbal persuasion. Mastery experience is when past success influences future successes.
This is a form of positive reinforcement because the success can be reproduced multiple
times and breed the same positive feeling. Vicarious experience is allowing the success of
others influence your own success. This is a cognitive observational behavior mainly
achieved socially because it is modeled by others. Somatic or emotional factors are the
physical or emotional state that influence self-confidence. Emotions have a strong effect
on the behavior; it can mean the difference between making a change or simply staying
4
Midterm Exam
stagnant. Verbal persuasion is providing others with support. This is crucial because
family, peer, school, and work support all offer motivation and confidence; it is also a
great support system and keeps a person accountable for their actions.