Health promotion, education, and prevention programs ultimately focus on changing health behavior. Essentials of Health Behavior: Social and Behavioral Theory in Public Health, Third Edition provides the groundwork for understanding, assessing, and effectively applying theories of human behavior within the practice of public health.
In clear and accessible language, this text provides the student with a background of the kinds of social and behavioral theories that guide our understanding of health-related behavior and form the background for health promotion and prevention efforts. Filled with real life examples and profiles, the text explores some of the ways in which these theories and approaches are used in applied health promotion efforts.
Since the publication of the Second Edition, health promotion theory has continued to evolve. The Third Edition keeps pace with developments such as rapidly evolving social media, increased global population diversity, and emerging epidemics, making the book useful and current.
Features and Benefits
"This title provides foundational knowledge critical to understanding and appreciating the importance of health models and theories and explores new frontiers in health behavior, such as epigenetics. It is appropriate for undergraduate students, practicing community health professionals, and graduate students seeking a quick review and update."
-- Sally Kuykendall, RN, BSc, PhD (Saint Joseph's University) Doody's Review
The audience is undergraduate public health students. Both the content and the way it is presented is appropriate for this audience. The book also could be used as a quick reference by health professionals in planning and evaluating programs.