Health behaviour and health education : theory, research and practice

The first edition of Health Behavior and Health Education provided in-depth analyses of various health behaviour theories relevant to health education. Drawing from such fields as cognitive and organizational psychology, marketing, and communications, this revised second edition offers the most current information on developments in health behaviour theory, research and practice. The book aims to advance the science and practice of health promotion and education through the informed application of theories of health behaviour. It analyses the key components of theories of health behaviour relevant to health education; evaluates current applications of these theories in selected health promotion programs and interventions, exploring three levels of approach for influencing health behaviour: the individual, interpersonal, and group or community levels; and identifies important future directions for research and practice in health promotion and health education in the face of increased globilization, new communication technologies, and health care reform. The book is organized into six parts. Part One defines key terms and concepts. Part Two focuses on theories of individual health behaviour including the Health Belief Model, the Transtheoretical Model, the Theory of Reasoned Action and the Theory of Planned Behaviour. Part Three emphasizes elements in the interpersonal environment that affect individuals? health behaviour focusing on Social Cognitive Theory, social support and social networks, and patient provider communication. Models for the community or aggregate level of change are covered in Part Four. Part Five discusses the PRECEDE-PROCEED model of health promotion planning; social marketing; ecological models; and cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic factors which moderate the application of theory. The final chapter presents future directions for theory, research and practice in health promotion and education.