Perspectives on Health Behavior Change in Latin America: Examining Key Models and Evidence
摘要
In this chapter, we present a brief review of seven health behavior change models that have been used in Latin America. The models analyzed are: the Health Belief Model, the Theory of Planned Behavior, the Transtheoretical Model, the Social Cognitive Theory, the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills Model, the Health Action Process Approach, and Betancourt’s Integrative Model. We have included a brief definition for each model and highlighted their relevant variables. In addition, we have included evidence of these models by incorporating studies conducted in the Latin American context with their respective results. Subsequently, we offer an analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of each model. Finally, we discuss the common aspects that the models present, the gaps that exist at the empirical level, and the challenges of their application in the Latin American population. We also provide suggestions for future research.