Question

In the Social Cognitive Theory, the factors of reciprocal determinism have many constructs including self-efficacy, expectations, observational learning (modeling), expectancies, emotional arousal, behavioral capability, reinforcement, and locus of control.

For this week’s Discussion, describe each construct as it relates to the Social Cognitive Theory and give one example for each construct as it relates to you personally in your goals of health and wellness, and use 350 words or more.

Answer 1

Ans) Social Cognitive Theory:
Social cognitive theory, the cognitive formulation of social learning theory that has been best articulated by Bandura, explains human behavior in terms of a three-way, dynamic, reciprocal model in which personal factors, environmental influences, and behavior continually interact. Social cognitive theory synthesizes concepts and processes from cognitive, behavioristic, and emotional models of behavior change, so it can be readily applied to nutritional intervention for disease prevention and management. A basic premise is that people learn not only through their own experiences, but also by observing the actions of others and the results of those actions. Key constructs of social cognitive theory that are relevant to nutritional intervention include observational learning, reinforcement, self-control, and self-efficacy.
Principles of behavior modification, which have often been used to promote dietary change, are derived from social cognitive theory. Some elements of behavioral dietary interventions based on social cognitive theory constructs of self-control, reinforcement, and self-efficacy include goalsetting, self-monitoring and behavioral contracting.
Self-efficacy, or a person's confidence in his or her ability to take action and to persist in that action despite obstacles or challenges, seems to be especially important for influencing health behavior and dietary change efforts. Health providers can make deliberate efforts to increase patients’ self-efficacy using three types of strategies: setting small, incremental, and achievable goals; using formalized behavioral contracting to establish goals and specify rewards; and monitoring and reinforcement, including patient self-monitoring by keeping records. In group nutrition programs, it is possible to easily incorporate activities such as cooking demonstrations, problem-solving discussions, and self-monitoring that are rooted in social cognitive theory.
The key social cognitive theory construct of reciprocal determinism means that a person can be both an agent for change and a responder to change. Thus, changes in the environment, the examples of role models, and reinforcements can be used to promote healthier behavior.