ABSTRACT
This influential THEORY has guided research on why people are motivated to initiate EXERCISE BEHAVIOR. Central to the theory is the CONCEPT that the performance of any behavior is determined by a combination of intention and CONTROL. Intentions are expressions of plans of action and make known motivations to behave. Perceived behavioral control represents how hard or easy a person feels it will be to carry out a particular behavior. The theory’s propositions can be summarized: (1) The strength of a
person’s intention to perform (or not perform) a certain type of behavior (for example, a workout) is a reliable predictor of their behavior; (2) Intention is determined by attitudes toward the type of behavior and subjective norms (how significant other people think about the behavior); (3) Intention and behavior are additionally affected by perceived behavioral control, which is basically how hard or easy it is to perform the behavior-these are related to the person’s experience, SKILL, ABILITY, SELF-CONFIDENCE, as well as the amount of time and money they have. The theory is an outgrowth of the theory of reasoned action which
was originated by Martin Fishbein and Icek Ajzen in the 1970s and has been used across a variety of contexts; for example, attempts to quit smoking, recycling waste, as well as starting exercise programs. In all cases, the attempt is to understand the link between intention and behavior. The theory is based on a MODEL of the human being as rational, calculating, and aware of social pressures from people they regard as important. But John Arnold and his colleagues argue that humans behave in ways that ‘‘promote the collective good’’ and not just their own interests. He also suggests that the theory ignores IDENTITY, which is influenced by how we see others seeing us and how we align ourselves with causes that are not attached to our personal circumstances.
