Applying Behavior Change Theory to Health Education

Imagine you are trying to help your sibling quit smoking and have made at least 10 attempts in the past year to do so but have failed. Using your classmates' explanation of behavior change theory, examine how you would have to view your role in helping your sibling to quit smoking. Then, armed with the knowledge of behavior change theory, explain what new steps you would take to help them quit smoking for good.

Natashia One method described to incorporate behavior change techniques was to challenge a group of students to improve their personal wellbeing and educate themselves using a behavior change plan (BCP). The goal of this plan was to set a level of achievement based on personal fitness goals as well as a change in diet. While most goals were set and achieved, some were not based off poor time management or lack of effort to stick with the proposed goals.

Students who met these goals said that they would use the program again given its efficiency. Another approach method is to provide a Health Belief Model based on theories and then set these theories into play using:

Knowledge

Attitudes

Perceived vulnerability

Skills

Self-efficacy

Reinforcement

This type of practice uses the individuals already known knowledge or lack thereof and focuses to expand it in their everyday lives. Though there is much information at our fingertips, a person must have the courage to mold their lifestyle to change. "Campaigns can have an important role and can be effective, but they are but one part of a total strategy and behaviour change is not just about simple messaging" (Baker & Kelly, 2016).

People thrive off of a simple life already planned for them whether it's the way they're raised or how people around them live which forms habits, it must be a willingness to change their old habits in order for a proper behavior plan to take over their lives for the best. Crossman, J. M. (2016). Planning, practicing, and prioritizing wellness through an integrative behavior change plan. Health Education Journal, 75(7), 823-832.