The video fragment in question is highly peculiar in the context of the psychological process behind sustainable health behavior. In this clip, Bob, the instructor, attempts to motivate Joelle to run full thirty seconds on a treadmill through a rather aggressive approach (NBCTheBiggestLoser, 2009). From the standpoint, of the social behavior theory, this situation represents the formation of this motivation through a set of primary factors.
According to Baranowski et al. (2008), social cognitive theory focuses on both “the psychological dynamics influencing health behavior and methods for promoting behavioral change” (165). More specifically, Bob creates an environment, in which Joelle is pushed to work to the full capacity in order to accomplish the task he has set for her. The external pressure serves as the primary environmental factor that prompts the woman to reach her goal.
This approach is possible through the development of self-efficacy that becomes one of the key components of behavioral change as per the social cognitive theory. The notion of self-efficacy implies that a person’s perception of his or her ability to accomplish the task determines the level of effort and dedication (Bandura, 1977). In the video fragment, Bob engaged Joelle’s self-efficacy through aggressive yelling and managed to convince her that she, indeed, can run full thirty seconds of the treadmill.
However, while the objective was attained, the methods remain questionable to an extent. In fact, Bob attempted to develop Joelle’s self-efficacy by creating a hostile environment, even turning other participants against her. The authors behind the self-determination theory argue that personal psychological needs, such as agency, competence, and relatedness, are more efficient in creating the motivation (Ryan & Deci, 2000).
Therefore, even though aggressive motivation yielded immediate results, its effectiveness in the long-term remains questionable. Heany and Israel (2008) discuss the importance of social support in health nurturing sustainable health habits. Joelle lacked social support in this hostile environment, meaning that she cannot fully experience its positive effect. Ultimately, Joelle will benefit from a considerate approach that will develop her innate needs in a natural, self-determined manner.
References
Bandura, A. (1977). Self-efficacy: Toward a unifying theory of behavioral change. Psychological Review, 84(2), 191–215.
Baranowski, T., Perry, C. L., & Parcel, G. S. (2008). How individuals, environments, and health behavior interact. In K. Glanz, B. K. Rimer, & K. Viswanath (Eds.). Health behavior and health education (4th ed., pp. 165-184). Jossey-Bass.
Heaney, C. A., & Israel, B. A. (2008). Social networks and social support. In K. Glanz, B. K. Rimer, & K. Viswanath (Eds.). Health behavior and health education (4th ed., pp. 185-209). Jossey-Bass.
NBCTheBiggestLoser. (2009). Biggest Loser 7 – Bob’s freakout extended [Video]. YouTube. Web.
Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being. American Psychologist, 55(1), 68–78.