Application of social learning theory and stages of change model

It is vital for health professionals to have a theoretical understanding of why individuals behave in a particular manner if they are to help the individual, family, groups or even communities improve their health. The paper provides an analysis of how to apply social learning theory and the stages of change model to unhealthy behaviours. Social Learning Theory Social learning theory asserts that individuals learn through observing others. Basically, the social learning theory is constructed on behavioural concepts which consider that a large part of an individual's lifestyle is learned via observations. A person observes the behaviours of other people, noticing whether they are punished or rewarded for the health outcomes. They imitate their parents' behaviours even when there is no reward involved.

Thus, the children pick up the traits, actions, and attitudes of their parents or any other role model in their life. Interestingly, the social learning theory links with psychoanalysis theory by Sigmund Freud. One of the central principles of Freud's argument is that behaviour can either be conscious or unconscious – one might or might not understand his/her motivations to think, feel or behave in a certain way (Bastable 2010, p. The two theories relate in the assertion that children undergo certain stages in the course of development to adulthood. Also, adolescents are the primary targets for musician endorsed-promotions. Famous musicians have in the past years advertised unhealthy food items via media outlets (Hoffman et al. 2017, p. The teenagers might be convinced to consume such foods with poor nutritional content, and this might affect their health.

The Stages of Change Model The stages of change model can be applied to unhealthy habits such as smoking, abusing alcohol and addiction. However, one might have health concerns about stopping drinking. Perhaps the withdrawal symptoms might be a significant health concern. Some of these include headaches, vomiting and nausea, palpitations, paleness, difficulties in reasoning clearly and anxiety among others. This might cause the person to relapse or be less motivated to change. For this reason, the best way forward is engaging a consultant before involving oneself in the stages of change as this will help in preventing relapse. J. , Mansoor, Y. , Natt, N. , Sritharan, L. , Belluz, J. Contemporary health promotion in nursing practice, 53, pp. Siegel, L. J. , and Welsh, B.