ACE Health Coach Certification Practice Test

Which theory emphasizes goal-driven health behaviors?

1. Behavioral theory

2. Social-cognitive theory

3. Humanistic theory

4. Biopsychosocial model

The correct answer is: Social-cognitive theory

The social-cognitive theory is centered around the idea that individuals are motivated to change their behaviors through the process of observational learning, imitation, and modeling. A key aspect of this theory is the emphasis on personal agency, where people actively set goals and are driven by the outcomes of their efforts. It posits that health behaviors are not only influenced by external factors but also by individuals' beliefs about their capabilities and the expected results of their actions. This framework underscores the importance of self-efficacy, which is the belief in one’s ability to succeed in specific situations. When people believe they can achieve their health goals, they are more likely to engage in health-promoting behaviors. This goal-driven approach to behavior change is inherently linked to setting and striving for tangible health-related objectives, making social-cognitive theory particularly relevant in health coaching contexts where setting and achieving personal goals are crucial for fostering positive behavior change. The other theories, while beneficial in understanding behavior, do not specifically emphasize goal-driven actions to the same extent as social-cognitive theory. For example, behavioral theory focuses more on conditioning and reinforcement than on personal goals, humanistic theory centers on personal growth and self-actualization rather than specific health behaviors, and the biopsychosocial model