Essay On Health Belief Model

An Evaluation of the Health Belief Model

The goal of this paper is to evaluate and discuss the Health Belief Model, its origins, development, key terms and application; review current research that uses the health belief model as a framework for evaluating health related behaviors and provide an example of how the theory can be applied in modern nursing practice.

History of the Health Belief Model

In the nineteen fifties, a group of social psychologists at the United States Public Health Service developed the Health Belief Model (HBM) in an attempt to understand the widespread failure of people to participate in screenings for asymptomatic disease; an early example being the failure of large numbers of adults to participate in free and convenient

The various constructs of the HBM are based on the theory that behavior depends mainly on two variables; the value placed on a health goal and the perceived probability that an action will achieve that goal when applied to health-related behaviors (Janz & Becker, 1984). These values translate into the desire to avoid illness (or if ill, to get well) and the belief that a certain action will prevent or cure illness (Janz & Becker, 1984). Although the HBM is the most commonly used theory in health education and promotion, the model does have its limitations. First, the model does not account for individual attitudes and beliefs that determine health behavior. It does not take into account habitual behaviors such as smoking. The HBM does not account for economic or environmental factors nor does it consider behaviors performed for non-health reasons. Additionally, there are assumptions that the same health information is readily available to everyone (Boston University School of Public Health, 2013). Finally, the Health Belief Model does not suggest a strategy for changing behaviors; it is more descriptive than explanatory (BUSPH, 2013).

Despite its limitations, the collection of data on health beliefs of a community, group or individual allows for better planning of more effective programs, treatments, interventions and teaching regarding prevention and disease (Stretcher & Rosenstock,