APPLYING THE HEALTH BELIEF MODEL AND SOCIAL COGNITIVE THEORY
Question One
Nelson et al., (2009) established that there exists a wide range of factors that lead to weight gain and unhealthy lifestyle activities. The Health Belief Model (HBM) and Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) concepts involve personal factors, environmental factors and behavioural choices. HBM and SCT concepts affect the lifestyle choices that young people make influencing weight gain. One such concept is a susceptibility that leads to the vulnerability of the young people engaging in activities like late-night snacking, alcohol intake, stress and boredom. Such activities lead to a reduction in physical activity and subsequent weight gain. Self-efficacy (individual belief) is another concept that affects young people leading to weight gain. If young people believe that they can engage in healthy activities and dietary intake, it increases their confidence in controlling their weight.
Question Two
To mitigate the weight-related behaviours of college youths, the following messages might prove effective. Eat Smart, Play Hard. This message acts as a national promotion campaign that conveys a behaviour-based and motivational message on investing in a healthy diet. Also, it encourages physical activity in both young and old people. Another message is Move More and Be Alive. This message encourages people to be active in a comfortable way while appealing to their fun side that a healthy lifestyle improves their personality. The ultimate goal is the promotion of healthy behaviours by reducing inactivity.
Question Three
Health professionals should use theories to guide their messaging since it helps comprehend the behavior and characteristics of the targeted population. For instance, HBM and SCT theoretical concepts among young people explain their behavioural factors like alcohol intake and unhealthy diets influencing weight. Theories aid in planning, evaluating and implementing interventions for the target population. Health professionals can thus communicate their agenda to the target population. They can also identify appropriate methods to execute the interventions for improving health.
References
Bandura, A. (2011). Social cognitive theory. Handbook of Theories in Social Psychology, 349-373.
Champion, V. L., & Skinner, C. S. (2008). The health belief model. Health Behavior and Health Education; Theory, Research, and Practice, 45-65.
Nelson et al. (2009). Understanding the perceived determinants of weight-related behaviours in late adolescence: A qualitative analysis among college youth. Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior 41, 287-292.
Williamson, C., Baker, G., Mutrie, N., Niven, A., & Kelly, P. (2020). Get the message? A scoping review of physical activity messaging. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 17, 1-15.