9990 · 3.5.3
Individual factors in changing health beliefs flashcards
Revision flashcards for Cambridge 9990 Individual factors in changing health beliefs (syllabus 3.5.3). Flip, recall, then mark a real past-paper question.
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Internal vs external locus of control?
Rotter — **internal LOC**: outcomes depend on own actions ("I control my health"). **External LOC**: outcomes depend on luck, fate, or powerful others.
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LOC and health behaviour?
Internal LOC correlates with **health-protective behaviour** (exercise, screening) — people believe their actions make a difference.
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Bandura's self-efficacy?
Belief in one's ability to **perform a specific behaviour** — distinct from general confidence; key predictor of health behaviour change.
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Sources of self-efficacy?
**Mastery experiences** (past success), **vicarious learning** (seeing others succeed), **verbal persuasion**, **physiological state** (calm vs anxious).
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Stages of Change Model?
Prochaska & DiClemente — **precontemplation → contemplation → preparation → action → maintenance** (± relapse).
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Why match intervention to stage?
Information-only campaigns fail for **precontemplators** (not ready) — need **motivational interviewing**; action-stage individuals need **skill-building** and relapse prevention.
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What is 'locus of control' in the context of health?
An individual's belief about the source of control over their health. An internal locus means believing one's own actions are key; an external locus means believing fate, luck, or others control health outcomes.
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Define 'self-efficacy' according to Bandura.
The belief in one's own capability to organise and execute the courses of action required to manage prospective situations. It is a task-specific confidence, not general self-esteem.
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What is the 'Precontemplation' stage in the Transtheoretical Model?
The first stage where an individual has no intention of changing their behaviour in the foreseeable future (usually defined as the next 6 months). They are often unaware that their behaviour is problematic.
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Describe the 'Action' stage of the Transtheoretical Model.
The stage where an individual has made specific, overt modifications in their lifestyle within the past six months. This is the most active stage of change and requires significant commitment of time and energy.
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What is the role of 'relapse' in the Stages of Change model?
Relapse is a return from the Action or Maintenance stage to an earlier stage. The model views relapse not as a failure, but as a normal part of the cyclical process of behaviour change, offering new learning opportunities.