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In health psychology there are many models of change. One of these models is the Health Belief Model. This is a continuum theories model, which means that we are going to change several or all variables that affect behavior and we are going to change them at once. Health Belief Model is an actual model used by professional psychologist and it has been found to be effective around the world in producing behavioral change.

The Health Belief Model can be summed up this way: Our beliefs in how effective the change will be, what the barriers are, what the costs are and what the consequences are of the change will determine if we undertake the change or not.

Basic Model Outline

1. Belief in a threat or a problem – is this a health threat or a problem? or not?
   1. General concerns about health – does the person even care about their health?
   2. Specific concerns – will or is this affecting me now?
   3. What are the consequences of this threat or problem?
2. Belief in effectiveness of change – will the change in behavior be effective in reducing the threat or removing the problem?
   1. Perceived Effectiveness – do you believe that the change will be effective in eliminating the threat or removing the problem?
   2. Perceived Costs or Barriers – will the cost of change actually exceed the benefits that will be produced?

This Health Belief Model has been applied to increasing TD screenings in the 1950s, increasing breast cancer screenings, stop smokings and other change.

How can you use this?

You can apply this same model to change a behavior that you want to change.

Example: Let’s say you want to lose 20 lbs of weight by starting a running program.

Current situation: how much do you enjoy eating out? do you live with people that don’t believe in healthy eating? is running anathema to you?

Severity: how often do you eat out or eat fast food? every meal or once in a while? have you ever run before or are you a total couch potato?

Benefits: why do you want to lose the 20 lbs?

Cost: What will it cost in time for you to lose 20lbs? how much money will it take for you to eat healthier and buy running equipment and gym pass? are you willing to lose your friends who might not like your new behavior?