Learning Theory and Public Health

Different scholars have attempted to explain the learning process including how individuals react to different situations. One approach that can be used to describe learning behavior is the Health Belief Model (HBM). HBM reflect on how learning can both be influenced by stimuli responses and cognition abilities. The success of learning is determined by reinforcement of outcomes that increase or reduce the psychological drive to engage in the given behavior. Notably, an action that results in negative implications is likely to be avoided more than an act that receives a reward. According to the HBM, self-efficacy refers to an individual’s ability to engage in action for Their satisfaction. It explains the challenges accrued while trying to change habitual behavior. HBM emphasizes more on the prediction of healthy practices, which can be achieved by focusing on individual belief and attitude.

It is essential to have skills that demonstrate inclusive practice. This is mostly shaped by an individual’s perceptions. It has to do with efficacy expectations, which is the ability to determine whether the changed behavior will lead to the projected outcome (Arminio, Reason, Krieger, and Serrano2017, p. However, the concept is quite similar to perceived benefit since it is also required for growth. It dwells on the confidence of one to engage in the desired action, which may witness them receive guidance on the best way to achieve their objectives like how they can avoid contracting sexually transmitted infections. Finally, Perceived barriers are an individual’s opinion on physical and psychological costs associated with the particular action they choose. This is often with regards to the understanding of the value of diversity.

Even more, their view that the threat can be reduced by initiating some changes in their behaviors will allow me to motivate them to pursue only positive actions. These processes will help me to determine the extent in which my clients feel able to engage in the recommended activity regardless of the duration set for the completion of the particular program and how much they are convinced that the strategy will solve their specific problems. Through the HBM approach, one can be in a position to assess the community needs as a way of identifying, planning, and implementing elaborate programs to improving the health conditions of the particular population. In order to understand the importance of anti-discriminatory participation when working in a diverse field, it is first essential to learn on how to appreciate diverse cultures.

The skills learned through HBM are essential in collecting data on the community’s perception towards their health status including their self-efficacy. However, self-efficacy of individuals in the given community can be enhanced by formulating short-term goals to increase the achievement of desirable behaviors. Furthermore, it is believed that amid the feeling of being susceptible to chronic diseases, one may be motivated to learn and associate with behaviors that only increase their self-efficacy and takes the shortest time possible. Also, using effective interpersonal skills is crucial in initiating changes at the community level. Through this, the health practitioner can be able to communicate throughout with his/her clients, which is a practical approach that enhances self-efficacy. By keeping the contact, the health provider and the needy population are enabled to discuss and agree on a treatment goal that works best and fast.

Theories of learning are instrumental I helping us get the skills needed to effectively deliver services to the community and public. This is because it helps in developing valuable skills such as communication skills and the ability to deal with different cultural backgrounds for different clients. It is noteworthy that Health Belief Model plays an essential role in explaining, influencing and predicting health behaviors, which means that applying it in a public profession would yield significant results. The HBM does the prediction and explanation of health behaviors through examination of attitudes and beliefs of an individual or group, which would be crucial in developing useful public service related skills. It assumes that a person is likely to engage in given actions if they feel that the negative implications of the given behavior can be avoided, they are likely to benefit from the activity and their belief that they can successfully engage in the recommended action without facing barriers.