Theory of Planned Behavior
Definition
The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) is a psychological theory that predicts a person's voluntary behavior. It suggests that our intentions are the best predictor of whether we actually do that behavior. But intentions aren’t formed in a vacuum. TPB proposes that these intentions are influenced by three main factors:
- Attitude: What are your overall feelings, positive or negative, towards performing the behavior? Do you believe doing it will lead to good outcomes?
- Subjective Norm: What do other people who are important to you think you should do? Do you believe they would approve of you performing the behavior? It's not just what they think, but what you believe they think.
- Perceived Behavioral Control: How easy or difficult do you believe it will be to perform the behavior? Do you feel confident you can overcome obstacles? This is similar to self-efficacy.
TPB suggests that if you have a positive attitude towards something, believe important people approve of you doing it, and feel capable of doing it, you are more likely to intend to do it, and therefore more likely to actually do it.
Example
June wants to start exercising regularly after class. According to the TPB, her decision will depend on:
- Attitude: Does she enjoy physical activity, or does she see it as a chore? If she believes exercise is beneficial and enjoyable, her attitude toward it will be positive.
- Subjective norms: What do her friends and family think about exercise? If they encourage her to work out, she might feel more motivated. However, if they discourage her, she might be less likely to start.
- Perceived behavioral control: Does she feel capable of sticking to a routine despite busy days or lack of time?
June's intention to exercise will depend on how these three factors align.
Why It Matters
The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) is important because it is a widely-used framework that helps to predict and understand attitudes, intentions, and behaviors related to various topics, such as health, education and productivity. TPB provides a comprehensive understanding of how various factors influence an individual's intentions and actual engagement in specific behaviors. This theory has been applied across diverse fields and offers valuable insights into the complex interplay of psychological factors that shape human decision-making and behavior.