Which health model posits two variables affecting health behavior?

The Health Beliefs model is foundational in understanding health behavior, as it emphasizes the role of individual beliefs and perceptions in influencing health-related decisions. This model identifies two primary variables: perceived susceptibility and perceived severity. These components work together to determine whether an individual will engage in health-promoting behaviors.

Perceived susceptibility refers to an individual’s assessment of their risk of contracting a particular health issue, while perceived severity involves the seriousness of the health problem and its potential consequences. Together, these perceptions motivate individuals to take action, such as adopting healthier lifestyles or seeking medical intervention.

This model is particularly useful in designing educational and intervention programs aimed at changing health behaviors, as it highlights the importance of addressing personal beliefs. The other models mentioned have different focuses; for instance, the Social Change model deals more with sociopolitical factors, the Behavioral model emphasizes observable actions, and the Psychosocial model integrates psychological and social factors without strictly isolating specific health behavior variables. Thus, these do not directly provide the dual-variable framework that characterizes the Health Beliefs model.