The Theory of Reasoned Action: Its application to AIDS-Preventive Behaviour

Abstract

(From the cover) Given the current lack of a suitable vaccine or effective treatment for HIV/AIDS, widespread behaviour change must be achieved if the spread of AIDS is to be minimised. In an effort to assist in the development of appropriate education programmes, considerable research attention has been directed towards the identification of factors that influence whether people engage in AIDS-preventive behaviour. Much of the research has utilised Fishbein and Ajzen's theory of reasoned action [the central premise of which is that people make behavioral decisions on the basis of a reasoned consideration of the available information] and its extensions to identify the determinants of safer sex behaviour. Despite the amount of attention directed towards the examination of factors that influence whether people choose to engage in high-risk practices, there have been few attempts to review and integrate this research. The Theory of Reasoned Action does this by combining theoretical exposition, critique, presentation of results of empirical studies, and discussion of applications of the model to AIDS education. /// For researchers and health professionals working in AIDS education and prevention, as well as students in courses on health psychology, social work, nursing and medicine.