Changing Intentions to Use Smokeless Tobacco: An Application of the IMB Model

OBJECTIVE: To determine if the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills model was effective for development of a smokeless tobacco educational unit (STEU) and analysis of STEU effects. METHODS: Structural equation modeling was used to test component relations proposed by the IMB model and STEU effects on parallel growth of IMB components. RESULTS: Results confirmed IMB model component relationships and indicated that STEU effects were primarily on information with indirect effects on expectancies and self-efficacy change through information. CONCLUSIONS: Prevention programming needs to address all IMB model components. Organizing analysis around the IMB model provides better understanding of program outcomes.