6.2 Attitudes

Question 1

Describe the term ‘Attitude’

Answer 1

Attitude is the combination of an individuals beliefs, feelings and actions causing them to behave in a certain way

Question 2

Is an individuals attitude fixed?

Answer 2

Attitudes are deeply rooted within an individual. Although not permanent and can be changed, it is proved to be difficult.

Question 3

Explain how attitudes are developed

Answer 3

Attitudes are organised through experience, therefore, developed through experiences.

Question 4

Identify the factors which effect the development of attitude

Answer 4

Past experiences
Socialisation
Education
Media
Cultural norms
Social learning

Question 5

Identify the model suggesting that attitude is made up of three components

Answer 5

Triadic model

Question 6

Describe and identify the components of the triadic model

Answer 6

A.B.C Model portrays an individuals attitude, positive or negative, towards an exercise based activity.

Affective: emotions/ feelings
Behavioural: actions
Cognitive: beliefs/ideas

Question 7

Give a practical example of the triadic model

Answer 7

Affective “i enjoy playing squash”
Behaviour “i train everyday and compete in club competitions”
Cognitive “i believe that i can be a successful squash player”

Question 8

Explain how an individuals attitude can be measured

Answer 8

Since attitude is linked to behaviour, one can observe, record and analyse an individuals behaviour in situations that are likely to reflect their attitudes and then behaviour. A questionnaire or survey is a valid source in terms of measuring attitudes.

Question 9

Identify the theories involved when aiming to change an individuals attitude

Answer 9

1. Persuasive communication theory
2. Cognitive dissonance theory

Question 10

Explain what is suggested by the persuasive communication theory

Answer 10

The persuasive communication theory suggests that for an attitude to change, the individual must understand and retain a message. There are four elements involved in this theory:

1. Persuader
2. Message
3. Situation
4. Recipient

Question 11

Identify when the persuasive communication theory is most effective

Answer 11

• When the MKO is perceived as an expert or trustworthy
• When the message is clear and appropriately balanced between emotions and logic

Question 12

Describe the elements of the persuasive communication theory

Answer 12

1. Persuader - needs to be perceived as significant.
2. Message - needs to be presented in a way that makes the recipient want to change an attitude.
3. Situation - attitudes are easier to change if there are other persuaders present.
4. Recipient - attitude is more easily changed if the recipient wishes it to be changed.

Question 13

Explain what is suggested by the cognitive dissonance theory

Answer 13

The cognitive dissonance theory suggests that all the elements within the triadic model (ABC) need to be consistent for an attitude to change. If two beliefs conflict then cognitive dissonance is experienced.

Question 14

Identify how a negative attitude could be changed in terms of the cognitive dissonance theory.

Answer 14

Affective - positive experience and reinforcement, varied practice, role models.
Behavioural - persuasive communication by an expert/MKO, peer pressure.
Cognitive - Educating, set goals, emphasise health benefits.