Think about your own life. Do you act to prevent a disease or accident when you perceive that you are not susceptible to the disease or at risk for the accident? INSTRUCTIONS Follow the 3 x 3 rule: minimum three paragraphs, with a minimum of three sentences each paragraph. · All answers or discussions comments submitted must be in APA format according to Publication Manual American Psychological Association (APA) (6th ed.) 2009 ISBN: 978-1-4338-0561-5 · Minimum of two references, not older than 2015.
In regards to preventing diseases or accidents, individual behaviors and actions are often influenced by personal perceptions of susceptibility and risk. According to the Health Belief Model (Rosenstock, 1974), the likelihood of engaging in preventive behavior depends on the individual’s perception of their susceptibility to a certain disease or their risk of experiencing an accident. This model proposes that individuals are more likely to take preventive measures if they believe they are at risk. Therefore, if individuals perceive that they are not susceptible or at risk, their motivation to prevent disease or accidents may be lower.
The concept of perceived susceptibility refers to an individual’s belief about their chances of getting a particular disease or experiencing an accident. It is often influenced by various factors such as personal characteristics, knowledge about the disease or accident, and past experiences. For instance, if an individual has a family history of heart disease, they may perceive themselves to be more susceptible to developing the disease. On the other hand, if an individual has never encountered any accidents in their life, they may perceive themselves to be less susceptible. These perceptions play a crucial role in determining whether individuals engage in preventive behaviors.
Additionally, the notion of perceived risk refers to an individual’s belief about the severity and consequences of a particular disease or accident. It takes into account the potential impact on their physical, emotional, and social well-being. If individuals perceive the consequences of a disease or accident to be severe, they are more likely to take preventive measures. For example, if an individual understands that smoking can lead to lung cancer and a decrease in quality of life, they may be more motivated to quit smoking. However, if individuals believe that the consequences are minimal or inconsequential, their motivation to prevent disease or accidents may be lower.
Furthermore, the psychological concept of optimism bias may also influence an individual’s perception of susceptibility and risk. Optimism bias refers to individuals’ tendency to believe that bad things are less likely to happen to them compared to others (Weinstein, 1980). This bias can lead individuals to perceive themselves as less susceptible to diseases or accidents, even in the face of objective evidence. For instance, individuals may engage in risky behaviors such as not wearing seatbelts or not getting vaccinated, under the belief that they are immune to negative outcomes. This optimistic bias can undermine preventive behaviors, as individuals may underestimate their susceptibility and overestimate their invulnerability.
In conclusion, an individual’s motivation to prevent diseases or accidents is influenced by their perceptions of susceptibility and risk. The Health Belief Model suggests that individuals are more likely to engage in preventive behaviors if they perceive themselves to be susceptible or at risk. Factors such as personal characteristics, knowledge, past experiences, and the severity of the consequences play a crucial role in shaping these perceptions. Additionally, the optimism bias can lead individuals to underestimate their susceptibility and overestimate their invulnerability. Recognizing and addressing these perceptions is essential in promoting preventive behaviors and ultimately improving public health.