Applying the theory of planned behavior: Examining how communication, attitudes, social norms, and perceived behavioral control relate to healthy lifestyle intention in Singapore

ABSTRACT

This study investigates the extent to which communication variables, namely, interpersonal communication and attention to mass media, as well as the key components in the theory of planned behavior (TPB), including, attitudes, social norms, and perceived behavioral control, are associated with healthy lifestyle intention in Singapore. Healthy lifestyle intention was conceptualized and operationalized in terms of individuals’ proclivity for physical activity and healthy diet. Data came from a nationally representative computer-assisted telephone interview (CATI) of 1055 Singaporeans aged 21 years and above. Hierarchical regression analysis was conducted. Results show that both communication and planned behavior variables were positively related to behavioral intention. The study is important for both theory and practice. Theoretically, it demonstrates the possibility to extend the TPB with two more variables: interpersonal communication and attention to mass media. On the practical front, the results inform health authorities and marketers on ways to promote public adoption of healthy lifestyle in Singapore.

KEYWORDS:

• Healthy lifestyle
• interpersonal communication
• media consumption
• theory of planned behavior
• Singapore

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Notes on contributors

Snehasish Banerjee is a Lecturer in the York Management School at the University of York. His research seeks to understand the impact of new media communication and digital technology on human behavior.

Shirley S. Ho is an Associate Professor and Associate Chair for Faculty in the Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information at Nanyang Technological University. Her research area focuses on cross-cultural public opinion dynamics related to science and technology, with potential health or environmental impacts. Specifically, her work emphasizes the roles of values, social media and other emerging modes of communication in shaping public attitudes toward science and technology.