Behavior Change

Question 1

Olshansky, et al., 2005

A potential decline in life expectancy in the U.S. in 21st century

Answer 1

Obesity = major health issue w/ many consequences. 2/3 adults are obese/overweight.

Impacts current population health + future Life expectancy. Life exp. gains could level off or decline.

Huge impact on SSA:

 - Late decision to up retirement age + predictions
 - Less working population
 - Health issues in older folks

Question 2

Steckler, 1989

Interview w/ Hochbaum

Answer 2

HBM -> Intro of social psychology

BC: “informing” shifted to “educating + motivating”. Need to change society as a whole. More diverse than ever.

Need to utilize macrotheories like sociology, social marketing theories, economy, poli sci

Reconnect w/ people! Meet public + employer needs.
Qualitative research is key!

Question 3

Stainbrook + Green, 1982

Behavior and Behaviorism in Health Education

Answer 3

Pros + cons of behavior change in HeD.

Relationship b/t attitudes + behaviors not as tested.

Legal + ethical issues - “Big Brother”, manipulate, totalitarian, dehumanizing, + loss of freedom

“Alter nature of controlling conditions rather than add new level of control”

Question 4

Greenberg, 1978

Health Education as Freeing

Answer 4

Goal: Free people to make decisions re: health. Not based on specific action ex: quit smoking. Decision making skills weigh cost/benefit.

Reduce social determinants that create barriers to health. Inferiority, hostility, alienation, SES, emotional distress.

Increase decision-making skills + self-esteem to help people make own decisions on what is healthy. More likely to choose health.

Question 5

Russell, 63

Are health educators “warriors against pleasure”?

Answer 5

“People react to own perceptions of reality, not experts”

Natural extension of negative consequences from perceived positive consequences = no fun.

Need to acknowledge that counter-motivations that exist.

Question 6

Russell, 1983

Is Behavior Change a Legitimate Objective for the Health Educator?

Answer 6

Behavior change is not one size fits all. Can feel manipulative to some.

Important to recognize that some change is better than no change.