Choosing a Theory

Steps in Choosing a Theory

  • Identify the Health Problem and Population
    • Define the health issue and the specific population affected.
    • Consider variations in the same health problem occurring in different populations.
    • Example: The approach to a smoking cessation program may differ between high school students and seniors in a housing complex.

Step 1: Identify the Problem and Population

  • Formulate questions to clarify the health problem:
    • What is the specific health problem?
    • Which population does this problem predominantly affect?

Step 2: Gather Information

  • Research existing literature and gather evidence regarding the health issue:
    • Utilize professional databases such as:
    • CINAHL
    • MEDLINE
    • ERIC
    • Conduct a needs assessment to understand the problem holistically.

Step 3: Identify Causes of the Problem

  • Compile data and analyze the information gathered:
    • Assess and pose the question, “Why does this health issue exist?”
    • Generate a list of possible underlying causes.
    • Remember: Theories help explain human behavior.

Step 4: Identify the Level of Interaction

  • For the identified causes, determine the level of interaction:
    • Intrapersonal
    • Interpersonal
    • Community
    • These levels help contextualize where the problem stems from.

Step 5: Identify the Theory

  • Reference the Theory Chart in your text to identify the appropriate theory:
    • If multiple theories seem applicable, consider these questions:
    • What behavior has this theory successfully explained?
    • What is the extent of literature support for this theory regarding the issue?
    • What limitations does the theory possess?

Evaluating Theory Fit

  • Once a theory is identified, test it against three further questions:
    • Is the theory logical in the context of the health issue I aim to address?
    • Is it comparable to successful theories found in relevant literature?
    • Is there research backing this theory?

Construct Domains

  • Examine the underlying construct domains relevant to the theory:
    • Key constructs include:
    • Skill
    • Knowledge
    • Motivation
    • Beliefs
    • Assess if altering these domains leads to behavioral changes.
    • Ensure chosen intervention techniques are effective in transforming the constructs.

Theory in Action - Class Activity

  • Context: There is heightened concern over antibiotic misuse, primarily due to prescription authority of healthcare professionals.
    • Objective: Persuade professionals to consider alternatives to antibiotics for non-bacterial infections (e.g., upper respiratory infections).

Class Activity Instructions:

  1. In groups, brainstorm reasons healthcare professionals may misuse antibiotics.
  2. Reference the construct domains chart to identify applicable theories and domains that may offer insights into addressing the reasons.

Theory in Action - Article Read

  • Recommended reading:
    • Hrisos et al. (2008). Study discussing theory-based interventions aimed at improving GP management of upper respiratory infections without antibiotic prescriptions. DOI: 10.1186/1472-6963-8-11

Theory in Action - Article Questions

  • Discuss what constitutes a guide for selecting appropriate interventions as presented by the authors.
  • Identify three theories cited in the article that contain constructs predictive of physician prescription behaviors.
  • Compare these theories with those your group discussed.

Further Article Questions

  • Examine which constructs from the aforementioned theories most accurately predict physician prescribing behaviors and their role in intervention development.
  • Review the theory, constructs, construct domains, and behavioral techniques utilized in the first intervention's development.
  • Outline the development steps taken by the authors in crafting their interventions.
  • Reflect on the similarities and differences between the brainstorming outcomes of your class and those highlighted in the article.