Applying the theory of planned behavior: Examining how communication, attitudes, social norms, and perceived behavioral control relate to healthy lifestyle intention in Singapore

Snehasish Banerjee, Shirley S. Ho

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This study investigates the extent to which communication variables, namely, interpersonal communication and attention to mass media, as well as the key components in the theory of planned behavior (TPB), including, attitudes, social norms, and perceived behavioral control, are associated with healthy lifestyle intention in Singapore. Healthy lifestyle intention was conceptualized and operationalized in terms of individuals’ proclivity for physical activity and healthy diet. Data came from a nationally representative computer-assisted telephone interview (CATI) of 1,055 Singaporeans aged 21 years and above . Hierarchical regression analysis was conducted. Results show that both communication and planned behavior variables were positively related to behavioral intention. The study is important for both theory and practice. Theoretically, it demonstrates the possibility to extend the TPB with two more variables: interpersonal communication and attention to mass media. On the practical front, the results inform health authorities and marketers on ways to promote public adoption of healthy lifestyle in Singapore.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)496-503
Number of pages8
JournalInternational Journal of Healthcare Management
Volume13
Issue numbersup1
Early online date15 Apr 2019
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2020

Bibliographical note

© 2019 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group. This is an author-produced version of the published paper. Uploaded in accordance with the publisher’s self-archiving policy. Further copying may not be permitted; contact the publisher for details.

Keywords

  • healthy lifestyle
  • interpersonal communication
  • media consumption
  • Theory of Planned Behaviour
  • Singapore

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