Matching the Message to the Process The Relative Ordering of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices in Behavior Change Research

Abstract

This study reconsiders traditional hierarchy models that posit a learning model of behavior change in which knowledge precedes attitudes, which in turn influence behavior. The case of contraception in Peru is considered and six possible knowledge, attitude, and practice permutations are developed. Contraceptive practice may precede detailed knowledge that may result in considerable misinformation. This misinformation may lead to dissatisfied users and discontinued useofhealtk behaviors. Media campaignsdesigned to inform thepubliccan create a more informed population of users, which in turn may create a more satisfied and hence sustainable user base. Assessing thejt of behavior change models is consistent with emerging work in development communication that has called for women's empowerment and informed choice to be cornerstones of health and development policy. The informed choice approach provides the basis for communication strategies that can more readily create a critical mass of support for such policies.his study addresses the relative ordering of knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) in behavior change models and its Thomas W. Valente,Ph.D., is anassistant professor in the

Energy and environmental attitudes in the green state of Denmark: Implications for energy democracy, low carbon transitions, and energy literacy

“…Although it seems logical that consumers that are better informed about the need for an energy transition and the technicalities of energy supply and distribution would be more willing to engage in energy saving practices or alter their behavior, that finding is not supported by our sample of survey respondents, who, despite having a preponderance of educated people living near the part of Denmark (Jutland) most populated with wind turbines, were unable to state even basic facts about the Danish energy system. Sometimes, it seems, people adopt pro-health or positive behaviors without fully considering why they are acting differently or absent a new mindset (Valente et al, 1998). One explanation could be that the success of a transition may depend on consumer illiteracy about energy.…”

How Low-Income Residents Decide Between Emergency and Primary Health Care for Non-Urgent Treatment

“…After individual coding was complete, researchers combined their findings and discussed themes that emerged. Distinct categories emerged, which overlapped with the KAP framework frequently used to assess community needs prior to communication campaign development (for a thorough review of KAP, see Valente, Paredes, & Poppe, 1998). The KAP framework has helped develop campaigns on everything from condom use to safe iPod use (Bull, Cohen, Ortiz, & Evans, 2002;Danhauer et al 2009).…”

A health education booklet and telephone follow-ups can improve medication adherence, health-related quality of life, and psychological status of patients with heart failure

“…23,24 Many studies have proved that the relationships between knowledge, attitude, and practice are positive. 23,25 Thus, the first step to changing individuals' behavior is to equip them with adequate and appropriate knowledge according to this model.…”

“…22 For the current study, the simple knowledge-attitude-practice (KAP) model, which is a frequently adopted cognitive model developed by learning theorists, 23,24 was used to underpin the interventions.…”