The Theory of Planned Behavior: Explaining Julie’s Dilemma.Attitude Change Consider the following scenario of Julie: As her New Year’s resolution, Julie decided it was finally time she got in shape. Years ago, she ran regularly, but more recently, work and family have dominated her time.

QUESTION

Discussion 2: Attitude Change
Consider the following scenario of Julie:

As her New Year’s resolution, Julie decided it was finally time she got in shape. Years ago, she ran regularly, but more recently, work and family have dominated her time. Julie still thought running was her best option; she lived in Florida with its year-round good weather, and the only financial investment was a good pair of running shoes and the right clothes. Having finally made this decision, Julie was very excited. She bought new shoes, running shorts, and performance tops, making her commitment to running even stronger. She designed a realistic running regimen she was certain she could follow. Day 1 came and, dressed in her new gear, Julie started down her street; the plan was to run to the nearby park about one mile away. She did not want to push it on the first day; after all, it had been years since she had run. When she had run a little less than a block, she was gasping for air, forcing her to stop. Her lungs were on fire, she was dizzy and nauseous. What Julie failed to consider was her pack-a-day cigarette smoking habit that seemed to throw a wrench in her plan.

Conflicted, Julie knew something had to change. She fancied herself a runner who liked smoking cigarettes; unfortunately, running and smoking were incompatible. Would her desire for cigarettes convince her that getting in shape was not all that important? Or, would her desire to get in shape convince her that smoking was counterproductive to her goals?

To Prepare
Think about how different theories of attitude change explain Julie’s dilemma.
Consider how different theories of attitude change address the likelihood of someone in Julie’s dilemma changing her or his attitude or behavior.
By Day 4
Post a description of the theory of attitude change that best explains Julie’s dilemma. Per the theory, explain whether Julie would be more likely to change her attitude or her behavior. Please explain why.

By Day 6
Respond at least two of your colleague’s posts and explain how Julie might reconcile her dilemma.

Be sure to support your postings and responses with specific references to the social psychology theory and research. In addition to the Learning Resources, search the Walden Library and/or Internet for peer-reviewed articles to support your post and responses. Use proper APA format and citations, including those in the Learning Resources.

Note: For this Discussion, you are required to complete your initial post before you will be able to view and respond to your colleagues’ postings. Begin by clicking on the “Post to Discussion Question” link and then select “Create Thread” to complete your initial post. Remember, once you click on Submit, you cannot delete or edit your own posts, and you cannot post anonymously. Please check your post carefully before clicking on Submit!

Return to this Discussion in a few days to read the responses to your initial posting. Note what you have learned and/or any insights that you have gained as a result of your colleagues’ comments.

ANSWER

 The Theory of Planned Behavior: Explaining Julie’s Dilemma

Introduction

Julie’s dilemma, involving her desire to get in shape while maintaining her smoking habit, can be understood through the lens of different theories of attitude change. This essay will focus on the Theory of Planned Behavior as the most relevant framework to explain Julie’s situation. We will analyze how this theory addresses the likelihood of Julie changing her attitude or behavior and provide explanations based on the theory.

Theory of Attitude Change

The Theory of Planned Behavior, developed by Icek Ajzen, posits that an individual’s intentions to engage in a particular behavior are influenced by three factors: attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control. Attitudes refer to one’s positive or negative evaluation of the behavior, subjective norms relate to social pressure and perceived expectations from others, and perceived behavioral control reflects the individual’s belief in their ability to perform the behavior successfully.

Explanation and Likelihood of Change

In Julie’s case, her attitude towards running is positive and motivated by her desire to get in shape. However, her attitude towards smoking may conflict with her goal. Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior, it is likely that Julie’s intention to change her behavior will be influenced by her attitudes and perceived behavioral control.

Attitude Change

Considering the theory, Julie may be more inclined to change her attitude towards smoking rather than her behavior of smoking. Her desire to get in shape and the positive evaluation she has towards running can serve as motivators for changing her attitude towards smoking. By recognizing the detrimental effects smoking has on her ability to run and achieve her fitness goals, Julie may develop a more negative attitude towards smoking. This change in attitude can contribute to a stronger intention to quit smoking, aligning with her goal of getting in shape.

Behavior Change

While Julie’s primary focus might be on changing her attitude towards smoking, it is important to acknowledge the possibility of behavior change as well. The Theory of Planned Behavior suggests that changes in attitude can lead to changes in behavior. As Julie’s attitude towards smoking becomes more negative, she may be more motivated to quit smoking or reduce her smoking habit. This change in behavior would be congruent with her commitment to getting in shape and running regularly.

Reconciling the Dilemma

To reconcile her dilemma, Julie can implement strategies based on the Theory of Planned Behavior. She can seek social support from friends, family, or support groups to reinforce her positive attitudes towards running and quitting smoking. Engaging with like-minded individuals who prioritize fitness and have successfully quit smoking can provide encouragement and serve as role models. Additionally, Julie can enhance her perceived behavioral control by seeking professional help, such as smoking cessation programs or counseling, which can provide her with the necessary tools and strategies to quit smoking effectively.

Conclusion

The Theory of Planned Behavior provides valuable insights into Julie’s dilemma and the potential for attitude and behavior change. Considering this theory, Julie is more likely to change her attitude towards smoking, aligning it with her goal of getting in shape. However, behavior change, such as quitting smoking, can also occur as a result of attitude change. By leveraging her positive attitude towards running and addressing her perceived behavioral control, Julie can successfully reconcile her dilemma and embark on her fitness journey while leaving her smoking habit behind.