BSPH 221 Lecture 15: Approaches to HP – The Behaviour Change Approach Dr J. I. Sitali

Lecture Outline Introduction. Aim. Methods. Evaluation. Practical Exercise

Introduction. Also called the lifestyle approach. This is the most criticized approach. It emphasizes individual choice and responsibilities. Critics say: choices are important, but do not occur in a vacuum. Interaction with society and environment is what determines behavior.

Class reflection point “Much of the responsibility for ensuring his (sic) own good health lies with the individual” (DHSS,1976: 95) “Modern western diseases are related less to a mans outside environment than to his own personal behavior; which might be termed our lifestyle” (DHSS, 1976: 17)

Aim of Behavior Change Approach. Encourage individuals to adopt healthy behaviors. For success, people must be ready to take action. Life choices influence health. Poor health is as a result of irresponsible action. Behavior, social factors and environment interact to determine health.

Methods. Targets individuals. Top – down approach. Tools of communication and education. Has a role for other approaches.

Evaluation. Difficult to evaluate: how do we ascertain the reason for a change in behavior? Change may be a long term outcome. Difficult to isolate any change as an outcome of a given intervention.

The end!