ADDICTION ( the theory of planned behaviour & six stage model )

Question 1

Define the theory of planned behaviour

Answer 1

The theory of planned behaviour is a cognitive model that attempts to explain how people make decisions about engaging in addictive behaviours. It proposes that behavioural intentions predict actual behaviour

Question 2

The theory of planned behaviour predict that behaviour is influenced by three components : attitude towards behaviour , subjective norms and perceived behavioural control outline them

Answer 2

Attitude toward the behaviour - This refers to the individual’s personal evaluation of the behaviour. If a person beliefs the behaviour has positive outcomes they are more likely to form the intention to do it ( stress relief from smoking) however negative beliefs reduce the likelihood of forming the intention

Subjective norms - refers to perceived social pressure from others ( friends , family ) If an individual believes that others approve of the behaviour , they are more likely to intend to do it. However if social norms discourage the behaviour ( anti-smoking culture ) , intentions may be reduced.

Perceived behavioural control - This is the individual’s belief in their ability to carry out the behaviour ( similar to self-efficacy ) If a person believes they can control their addiction ( eg. quit smoking or avoid gambling) , they are more likely to try

Question 3

Evaluate the theory of planned behaviour

Answer 3

STRENGTHS :

Useful in designing interventions : TPB identifies specific cognitive factors that can be targeted in public health campaigns ( eg. changing attitudes , peer norms ) Has been used to design interventions for smoking cessation , safe drinking , and reducing gambling

Evidence : TPB successful in explaining alcohol and tobacco use among adolescents.

Accounts for individual differences : unlike purely behavioural models , TPB recognises the role of personal beliefs and choices , making it more realistic in modern psychology

LIMITAIONS :

Intention - Behaviour gap : A major criticism is that intentions don’t always lead to behaviour. People may intend to quit an addiction , but still relapse due to emotional states , habitual cues , or lack of willpower.

Overlooks emotional and physical factors : TPB is cognitive and rational , but addiction often involves emotional , impulsive or physiological processes ( eg. cravings, withdrawal ) Doesn’t fully explain why people act against their intentions in the moment

Question 4

Define prochaska’s six stage model and outline it’s six stages model : precontemplation , contemplation , preparation , action , maintenance , termination

Answer 4

model explains how people intentionally change their addictive behaviours overtime. It recognises that behaviour change is a process not a single event.

Precontemplation : the individual is not considering change and may be unaware that their behaviour is problematic

Contemplation : The person is aware of the problem and begins to think about making a change making pros and cons of quitting.

Preparation : The individual intends to change soon and may start making small adjustments ( eg. cutting down , researching support groups )

Action : The person has actively changed their behaviour , eg. stopped smoking , drinking or gambling. Requires time , energy , and support.

Maintenance : the individual works to sustain the change and avoid relapse. Can last for months or even years.

Termination ( or sometimes relapse ) - The person has no desire to return to the addictive behaviour and fully confident in maintaining change. In some versions , relapse is recognised as a normal part of the process , not a failure

Question 5

Evaluate Prochaska’s six-stage model of behaviour change

Answer 5

STRENGTHS :

Dynamic and realistic : unlike other models , it recognises that relapse is common and that people can move back and forth between stages. More representative of real-life addiction recovery , which is often non-linear.

Holistic view of change : takes into account cognitive , emotional and behavioural factors at each stage. Recognises that change is a process over time , not a one-time decision.

LIMITATIONS :

Stage boundaries may be arbitrary : Critics argue the divisions between stages are artificial and oversimplified. Behaviour change may not happen in discrete steps , and people may skip or combine stages.

Assumes rational decision - making : Assumes people are able to rationally assess their addiction and act accordingly . May underestimate emotional , social , and environmental influences ( eg. poverty , peer pressure , trauma )