Comparison of Constructs between Health Behaviors - Essay Example

The health belief theory seeks to explain why certain individuals do not use clinical services like immunization and screening. The protection motivation theory however elaborates on the behavior of individuals who are exposed to health threat communication hence arousing fear in them (Orbell, Hagger, Brown & Tidy, 2006).

The health belief model focuses on perceived barriers and benefits whereas the protection motivation model has its core values on response efficacy and perceived self-efficacy. The two theories share vulnerability and severity (Ajzen, 2002).

Self-efficacy theory is built on outcome expectancies which are perceived as either positive or negative depending on the performed behavior. On the other hand, the theory of planned behavior works under the assumption that most socially relevant behaviors are volitionally controlled. Hence, an individual’s intent on performing a particular behavior is seen as the immediate determinant as well as the only and best predictor of the behavior (Hunter, Grunfield & Ramirez, 2003).