Chapter 6 Flashcards
What is a health behavior?
A health behavior is any action taken by an individual that affects their health, either positively or negatively.
What are examples of health behaviors?
Examples include exercising, eating a balanced diet, smoking, and wearing a seatbelt.
What is a health habit?
A health habit is a routine health-related behavior that is performed automatically, often without conscious effort.
What are positive health habits?
Positive health habits, such as brushing teeth and regular physical activity, contribute to long-term health.
What is the Health Belief Model (HBM)?
The Health Belief Model (HBM) is a psychological framework that explains and predicts health behaviors based on individuals’ perceptions of health threats and the benefits of taking action.
What are the key components of the Health Belief Model?
Key components include perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, self-efficacy, and cues to action.
What does the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) state?
The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) states that an individual’s intention to engage in a behavior is influenced by their attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control.
What increases the likelihood of performing a health-related behavior according to TPB?
Stronger intentions, supported by favorable attitudes and social norms, increase the likelihood of performing a health-related behavior.
What is behavioral intention?
Behavioral intention refers to an individual’s motivation and commitment to performing a specific health behavior in the near future.
How is behavioral intention related to actual behavior?
According to TPB, behavioral intention is a strong predictor of actual behavior, particularly when the individual perceives high control over their actions.
What is a subjective norm?
A subjective norm is an individual’s perception of social pressure to engage in or avoid a particular behavior.
How do subjective norms influence health behavior?
If important people (e.g., family, friends, or society) approve of a health behavior, the person is more likely to engage in it.
What does the Transtheoretical Model (TTM) describe?
The Transtheoretical Model (TTM) describes behavior change as a process that occurs through five stages: precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance.
How does the TTM help in designing interventions?
This model helps design interventions by tailoring strategies to an individual’s current stage of readiness for change.
What is primary prevention?
Primary prevention involves proactive measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries before they occur.
What are examples of primary prevention?
Examples include vaccination, healthy eating, and public health campaigns to reduce smoking and alcohol consumption.
What is secondary prevention?
Secondary prevention aims to detect and address diseases in their early stages to prevent progression.
What are examples of secondary prevention?
Screening programs, such as mammograms and blood pressure monitoring, help identify diseases early for more effective treatment.
What is tertiary prevention?
Tertiary prevention focuses on managing and reducing the impact of chronic diseases or long-term health conditions.
What are examples of tertiary prevention?
Rehabilitation programs, physical therapy, and medication management help improve the quality of life for individuals with chronic illnesses.
What is a gain-framed message?
A gain-framed message emphasizes the benefits of engaging in a health behavior.
What is an example of a gain-framed message?
“Exercising regularly will help you live longer and feel more energetic.”
What is a loss-framed message?
A loss-framed message highlights the potential negative consequences of not engaging in a health behavior.
What is an example of a loss-framed message?
“Smoking increases your risk of lung cancer and premature death.”
What are cognitive-behavioral interventions?
Cognitive-behavioral interventions use psychological techniques to change unhealthy behaviors by addressing thoughts, emotions, and environmental triggers.
What are common strategies in cognitive-behavioral interventions?
Common strategies include cognitive restructuring, problem-solving, self-monitoring, and reinforcement techniques to promote healthier habits.
What is self-monitoring?
Self-monitoring involves tracking one’s behaviors, thoughts, or emotions to increase awareness and identify patterns related to health habits.
What tools can assist in self-monitoring?
Tools like food diaries, step counters, and mobile health apps help individuals modify their behaviors and stay accountable.
What are discriminative stimuli?
Discriminative stimuli are environmental cues that trigger or reinforce specific behaviors.
How can discriminative stimuli influence behavior?
For example, seeing a fast-food restaurant sign may prompt cravings and lead to unhealthy eating.
What is a stimulus-control intervention?
A stimulus-control intervention involves modifying the environment to promote positive health behaviors and reduce unhealthy ones.
What are examples of stimulus-control interventions?
Examples include placing healthy foods at eye level in the refrigerator or removing cigarettes from the home to support smoking cessation.
What are relapse prevention strategies?
Relapse prevention strategies help individuals maintain behavior change by identifying high-risk situations and developing coping mechanisms.
What techniques are used in relapse prevention?
Techniques such as mindfulness, problem-solving, and social support are used to prevent setbacks in behaviors like smoking cessation or weight management.
What is a contingency contract?
A contingency contract is a behavioral strategy in which individuals make a formal agreement with themselves or others to achieve a health goal.
What does a contingency contract typically include?
The contract typically includes specific rewards for success and consequences for failure, reinforcing accountability and motivation.
What is positive psychology?
Positive psychology focuses on strengths, well-being, and factors that contribute to a fulfilling and meaningful life.
How does positive psychology relate to health psychology?
In health psychology, it promotes resilience, optimism, and gratitude as protective factors against stress and illness.
What does thriving refer to?
Thriving refers to a state of enhanced well-being and personal growth following adversity or stress.
What do individuals who thrive often develop?
Individuals who thrive often develop stronger coping mechanisms, a sense of purpose, and greater life satisfaction despite challenges.
What is agency?
Agency refers to an individual’s ability to take control of their actions and make choices that influence their health and well-being.
What is associated with high levels of agency?
High levels of agency are associated with proactive health behaviors, goal setting, and increased motivation to overcome challenges.
What is allostatic overload?
Allostatic overload occurs when prolonged exposure to chronic stress leads to excessive physiological wear and tear on the body.
What health problems can allostatic overload contribute to?
This state contributes to various health problems, including cardiovascular disease, weakened immune function, and metabolic disorders.
What is biological embedding?
Biological embedding describes how early-life experiences, particularly stress or adversity, shape long-term physiological and psychological health.
How can childhood trauma affect health in adulthood?
For example, childhood trauma can lead to heightened stress reactivity and increased risk for chronic diseases in adulthood.
What is social integration?
Social integration refers to the extent to which individuals are connected to and engaged with their social networks and communities.
What are the health outcomes associated with high levels of social integration?
High levels of social integration are linked to better mental and physical health outcomes, including lower stress, reduced inflammation, and increased longevity.