The Role of Health Belief Model and Planned Behavior in Public Health

This assignment examines the Health Belief Model (HBM) and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and their applications in public health contexts. The HBM is analyzed in relation to condom usage, highlighting how factors like perceived susceptibility and benefits influence behavior. The TPB is discussed, focusing on its components (attitude, norm, and perceived control) and their impact on intentions and behaviors, particularly in the context of smoking cessation during pregnancy. The assignment emphasizes the interconnectedness of the HBM and TPB, demonstrating their usefulness in understanding and promoting healthy behaviors. It explores how these models can be used to encourage individuals to adopt healthier practices, such as avoiding smoking and using condoms. The assignment also highlights the importance of public health interventions and education in reinforcing these behaviors.

Question 1: The Arrows In The Theory of Planned Behavior
TPB theory is formed by the interconnection of components to explain a particular
behavior. The arrows interconnecting attitude, norm and perceived control means that the
components are mutual to each other. The arrows of the above three components point to
intention, which means they define it. Finally, the intention arrow points to the behavior, the
behavior is directly controlled by intention.
Question 2: Effectiveness of the Health Belief Model
Health Belief model is effective in promoting the use of a condom during intercourse.
Putting in mind that unprotected sex in many cases leads to acquiring HIV/AIDS. The model
explains that learned people are more likely to use condoms during sexual intercourse than
unlearned mainly because of the diversity in knowledge. Drinking and use of drugs promote
unprotected sex, the vice versa is true according to the model. Partners prepared to have sex are
likely to use a condom during intercourse. The awareness that protected sex reduces chances of
pregnancy is a plus and many individuals may use condoms because of this.
QUESTION 3: Effectiveness of TCP in helping Expectant women to quit smoking.
The theory of planned behavior effectively shows why pregnant women should stop
smoking. Normally, it is not good for pregnant women to smoke since it does not only affect the
mother but also the fetus before conception. Perceived concept postulates that it is unusual to
indulge in smoking while pregnant; it is against the health law. Conclusively, pregnant women
should not involve themselves in smoking, they should quit it. There should be public teachings

on the effects of smoking or use other related drugs during pregnancy. When all this is done,
much will be achieved and people will live a healthy life.