Health Psychology And Human Diversity 2 Flashcards
Name the three learning theories used to understand health-related behaviour.
Classical conditioning
Operant conditioning
Social learning-theory
What is classical conditioning? Give an example.
It is association with other stimuli.
For example- smoking can be associated with a work break - behaviour is unconsciously paired with environment/emotions.
What is operant conditioning? Give an example.
Behaviour is reinforced by punishment or rewards. - behaviour is reinforced if it is rewarded.
- For example- unhealthy behaviours can be immediately rewarding, e.g unsafe sex, eating chocolate.
What is social learning theory? Give an example.
When you observe others behaviour and see what is rewarded/punished.
For example- people are more likely to perform behaviours that are valued or if they believe they can do something.
Define self efficacy
Whether or not you believe you can do something.
What are pavlov’s dogs an example of?
Classical conditioning - the dogs learnt to first of all associate food with salivation and then after a bell was introduced, they associated the bell with salivation.
What is anticipatory nausea in chemotherapy an example of?
Classical conditioning- after a few rounds of chemo; patients reported feelings of nausea just looking at the equipment as they associated chemotherapy with feeling sick.
How can you change behaviour of classical conditioning? (2)
Pair the behaviour with an unpleasant response. E.g alcohol and medication to induce nausea.
Break the unconscious response- put an elastic band on the cigarette packet.
How can you change behaviour of operant conditioning?
Shape behaviour through reinforcement. E.g saving money towards a holiday by giving up smoking.
Name the three social cognition models.
Cognitive dissonance theory
Health belief model
Theory of planned behaviour
What is the cognitive dissonance theory? How are people likely to change their beliefs?
Discomfort felt when hold inconsistent beliefs or actions don’t match beliefs.
If we provide people with info that are opposite to their beliefs, they are more likely to change their behaviour as it creates this discomfort.
What is the health belief model?
People hold beliefs about what might harm their health, and what they can do to protect themselves against these threats.
What is the theory of planned behaviour?
The idea that if you want to understand someone’s behaviour, you have to know their intentions first.
In the theory of planned behaviour, what 3 factors influence intention?
Attitude towards behaviour Subjective norm (influence of others) Perceived control (similar to self efficacy)
What is health promoted behaviour?
Anything that may promote good health, or lead to illness. E.g smoking, drinking, exercise, safer sex behaviour
