The Application of the Theory of Reasoned Action and Planned Behavior to Prevention Science in Counseling Psychology

Abstract

The theory of reasoned action and planned behavior (TRA/PB) is a model of behavior change that has been extensively studied in the health sciences but has had limited exposure in the counseling psychology literature. The model offers counseling psychologists a framework to conceptualize prevention research and practice. The model is important to consider since the training of counseling psychologists is heavily dominated by theories of psychotherapy that emphasize remediation rather than prevention. This article discusses a brief history and explanation of TRA/PB along with relevant research, limitations, and multicultural considerations. Elicitation research, an important component of the model, receives emphasis because it solicits population-specific cognitions and social influences relevant to targeted behaviors, thus strengthening prevention interventions. An example demonstrates how TRA/PB can be used as a theoretical framework to support prevention research. Recommendations for prevention training of counseling psychologists are presented.

Ready, Willing and Able? An Investigation of the Theory of Planned Behaviour in Help-Seeking for a Community Sample with Current Untreated Depressive Symptoms

“…This is problematic, as behavioural research points to a gap between intention and behaviour (Sheeran and Webb 2016) for instance, due to individual forgetfulness or a lack of opportunity to perform (Lang 2005). From a psychological perspective, help-seeking behaviour can be characterised by multiple aspects (Miller and Rollnick 2002;Rickwood and Thomas 2012;Romano and Netland 2008;White et al 2018), that is (1) assessing a psychological or emotional problem and recognizing the need for external help (i.e. recognition), (2) identifying appropriate sources of help and being open to seeking them out (i.e.…”

Effects of a brief media intervention on expectations, attitudes, and intentions of mental health help seeking.

“…behavior (Romano & Netland, 2008). First, as applied to help seeking, the theory holds that individuals must overcome beliefbased barriers as a means of improving their expectations that treatment would lead to a beneficial outcome.…”

Abstinence Education Changes Perceptions of Middle School Students

“…The Intervention The intervention used strategies addressing the social and emotional well-being of the youth served, based on three compatible theories: 1) social learning theory (Bandura, 1977(Bandura, , 1997(Bandura, , 2004; 2) the theory of reasoned action (Ajzen & Fishbein, 2005;Fishbein, 2008); and the related theory of planned behavior (Hartman, 2009;Romano & Netland, 2008). All of these theories have provided a basis for successful change in health-related behaviors by developing skills that are protective factors.…”