Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) describes the influence of individual experiences, the actions of others, and environmental factors on individual health behaviors. SCT provides opportunities for social support through instilling expectations, self-efficacy, and using observational learning and other reinforcements to achieve behavior change. Show
Key components of the SCT related to individual behavior change include:
Social Cognitive Theory Examples
Considerations for ImplementationThe SCT can be applied as a theoretical framework in different settings and populations. It is frequently used to guide behavior change interventions. It may be particularly useful in rural communities for examining how individuals interact with their surroundings. The SCT can be used to understand the influence of social determinants of health and a person's past experiences on behavior change. Resources to Learn More
Social Cognitive Theory
Exploring social cognitive theory constructs for promoting exercise among breast cancer patientsLaura Q Rogers et al. Cancer Nurs. 2004 Nov-Dec. AbstractPhysical activity during breast cancer treatment can significantly reduce treatment-related fatigue and improve quality of life. Unfortunately, the majority of women with breast cancer either do not exercise at all or exercise below recommended levels. Little is known about how to enhance physical activity among breast cancer patients. The social cognitive theory, a useful framework for the design of physical activity interventions, has not been studied among breast cancer patients. Our study purpose was to explore physical activity knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors among breast cancer patients during adjuvant therapy utilizing social cognitive theory constructs in preparation for a larger, survey study and future intervention research. Twelve breast cancer patients attended 1 of 3 focus group sessions. Focus group questions were based on the social cognitive theory constructs of self-efficacy, environment, behavioral capability, expectations, expectancies, self-control and performance, observational learning, and reinforcement. The focus group participants generally felt confident in their ability to exercise during treatment if fatigue, time management, and social networking were addressed. The majority of participants had not been given information related to exercise by their physicians during treatment. The participants felt that exercise was more beneficial than harmful during treatment, with the 2 most important benefits identified as reduced fatigue and the potential for improved survival. The use of reinforcements by participants was minimal. The participants consistently expressed the desire for education and guidance by knowledgeable staff during an exercise program. Walking was the most acceptable exercise modality. Social cognitive theory may be a useful framework for future study of exercise behavior among breast cancer patients and measurement of constructs related to this theory should be included in such studies. Future exercise intervention studies should consider the unique barriers and program preferences of breast cancer patients while focusing on self-efficacy, outcome expectations/ expectancies, observational learning, and reinforcements. Similar articles
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What are the three main components in social cognitive theory?SCT identifies three main factors that influence behavior and behavioral choices: (1) the environment (e.g., neighborhood, proximity to gym), (2) individual personality characteristics and/or experience (including cognitions), and (3) behavioral factors.
What is Bandura's social cognitive theory quizlet?Social Cognitive Theory. -Emphasizes the social origins of behavior, in addition to the cognitive thought process that influence human behavior and functioning. -The basic concept is observational learning.
When using the social cognitive theory construct of reinforcement to change behavior the premise behind it is that people behave in ways that result in rewards?When using the Social Cognitive Theory construct of reinforcement to change behavior, the premise behind it is that people behave in ways that result in rewards. An innovation has a greater likelihood of being adopted if it can be tried or sampled before a permanent commitment is made to it.
What is the first step in choosing a theory?1. Identify your key concepts. The first step is to pick out the key terms from your problem statement and research questions. Concepts often have multiple definitions, so your theoretical framework should also clearly define what you mean by each term.
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