Predicting breast self-examination using the theory of reasoned action

Area of Science:

• Health Behavior Research
• Social Psychology
• Gerontology

Background:

• Breast self-examination (BSE) is a crucial screening method for early breast cancer detection.
• Understanding the psychological and social factors influencing BSE behavior is vital for promoting adherence, especially in older women.
• The Theory of Reasoned Action provides a framework for examining behavioral intentions and actions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the personal and normative influences on breast self-examination (BSE) behavior in older women.
• To compare the predictive power of direct and indirect measures of attitude and social norm on BSE intention and frequency.
• To identify key factors differentiating frequent from infrequent BSE performers.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Theory of Reasoned Action to guide the study.
• Collected data from 93 female volunteers aged 52-90 years using a structured questionnaire.
• Employed both direct and indirect measures of attitude and social norm to assess intention and BSE frequency.

Main Results:

• Indirect measures of attitude and social norm explained more variance in intention and behavior than direct measures.
• Indirect measures were better predictors of actual BSE behavior than intention alone.
• Significant differences in all model components were observed between frequent and infrequent BSE performers.
• Discriminant analysis using indirect measures correctly classified 76% of participants into frequent and infrequent BSE groups.

Conclusions:

• Indirect personal and normative influences are significant predictors of breast self-examination behavior in older women.
• The findings suggest a need to refine theoretical models by emphasizing indirect constructs for understanding health behaviors.
• Interventions aimed at increasing BSE frequency should consider addressing indirect attitudes and social norms.