The influence of risk perception on behavior: a study of adolescents and anti-tobacco campaigns
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Abstract
The objective of this study was to measure how adolescents' perceptions of personal risk and exposure to anti-tobacco campaign messages affect their decision to make a health-related change in behavior. Adolescent smoking behavior was evaluated according to key factors of the Health Belief Model (HBM). A questionnaire was administered to 103 participants to assess perceived levels of threat, perceived benefits and barriers, exposure to campaign cues to action, and exhibition of campaign recommended behaviors. Linear regression was used to assess the relationships among the HBM constructs. The findings indicated that perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived barriers and benefits, and exposure to campaign cues were significant predictors of exhibiting campaign recommended behaviors. Knowledge about factors that influence adoption of anti-tobacco behaviors allows for modifications to anti-tobacco campaign and improved effectiveness.