Can protection motivation theory predict behaviour? A longitudinal test exploring the role of previous behaviour

The sufficiency of variables specified by Protection Motivation Theory (Rogers, 1975; 1983) in accounting for performance of breast self-examination was tested in a longitudinal survey. Behaviour was assessed by self-report at a one month follow-up. Intention to perform B.S.E. was associated with coping appraisal, but not threat appraisal. Multivariate analysis showed that self efficacy was a significant independent predictor of B.S.E intentions. Time one intention significantly predicted behaviour at time two. The inclusion of previous behaviour added significantly to the prediction of both intention and behaviour, suggesting that protection motivation theory variables sufficiently explain neither the development of protection motivation nor the translation of intention into action. The results highlight the need for future research to address volitional and self-regulatory processes governing the mediation of previous and future behaviour.