Social influence on women & heart disease: A comparison of theoretical models

Abstract

There are many different models that can be used to explain health behaviors. Maddux (1993) reviewed several of the social cognitive models of health and exercise behavior. These included: Bandura' s self-efficacy theory (Bandura, 1986), the Theory of Reasoned Action/Planned Behavior by Fishbein & Ajzen (1991), and the Health Belief Model by Rosenstock (1966). Rather than comparing these models to determine the most valuable, Maddux highlights the similarities and proposes an integrated model. Each model has its strengths and its weaknesses. However, the similarities between the various social-cognitive models are greater than are the differences. Combined, they share a few basic features: 1) outcome expectancies (perceived vulnerability; response efficacy/expected benefits; and expected costs); 2) outcome value; 3) self-efficacy expectancy; and 4) intention (Maddux, 1993). Forming an integrated model and incorporating the various elements may provide a more accurate picture of the variables that predict the adoption of a health behavior. (from Conclusion)