Comparison of Four Behavioral Theories

A major concern among occupational health nurses is the efficacy of their health education and health promotion programs. The success of programs may be improved when they are built on a sound and appropriate theoretical foundation. Four models that present a logical and reasonable approach to behavioral change include the Health Belief Model, the Theory of Self Efficacy, the Theory of Reasoned Action, and the Multiattribute Utility Model. Behavioral models provide a framework for the development of interventions and strategies which will facilitate behavioral change.