Theory of reasoned action
Main components of TRA (2)
- The TRA believes that intention to quit the addictive behaviour occurs from behavioural attitude (e.g. beliefs and evaluations about the outcome) or subjective norms (e.g. pressure from others through normative beliefs and motivation to comply). - Which then result in the desired behaviour (e.g. stopping smoking)
How can the TRA be applied to gambling (3)
- The TRA holds that behaviour is rational and that gambling activities can be explained in terms of gambing attitudes and subjective norms. - Moore and Ohtsuka found in a sample of adolescents and adults, the TRA predicted gambling frequency and problem gambling. - Subjective norms and attitudes predicted intentions to gamble (or not) and intentions to gamble predicted actual behaviour.
Main assumptions of the TRA (4)
- The TRA is a cognitive theory concerning the decision to engage in a particular behaviour. - According to this theory, an individuals decision to engage in a behaviour can be directly predicted by their intention to engage in that behaviour. - A behavioural intention is determined by two factors personal and social - Fishbeing and Ajzen
Social factors (2)
- The individual's subjective awareness of social norms relating to that particular behaviour. - Subjective norms are beliefs about what we think significant others within our social group, society and culture feel is the right thing to do as well as perceptions of what other people are actually doing
Personal factors (2)
- The individuals attitude towards the behaviour. - This is based on beliefs about the consequences of performing the behaviour (e.g. good or bad) and an appraisal of the value of these consequences (whether they'll be good or bad)
Criticisms for the TRA model (3)
1. Research mainly correlational - meaning results are weak and people dont always do what they intend to do 2. Fails to take past behaviour into account - which could be a good predictor of future behaviour 3. Fails to account for irrational behaviour - Maes and Van Elderen argue that 'the assumption that behaviour is a function of intentions, limits the applicability of the model to volitional behaviour - behaviours that are perceived to be under personal control.
Support for the TRA model (2)
1. Research shows successfully predicts a wide range of behaviours - such as blood donation, smoking marijuana, dental hygiene and family planning. 2. Many practical applications - can be used in health institutions and in marketing to predict and alter behaviour
