Which belief type relates to beliefs about the expectations of important others?

• A. Behavioral beliefs
• B. Self-efficacy beliefs
• C. Normative beliefs
• D. Control beliefs

Answer: (C)

Beliefs about the expectations of important others are normative beliefs. They capture what you think significant people (like family, friends, or clinicians) want you to do and how much you care about meeting those expectations. This social-pressure component helps drive your intention to act, separate from your beliefs about the consequences of the behavior or your confidence in doing it. For example, if you believe your parents and teachers expect you to exercise regularly and you care about pleasing them, that normative belief can motivate you to adopt the behavior. This differs from behavioral beliefs (about positive or negative outcomes of the action), self-efficacy beliefs (your confidence in performing the action), and control beliefs (perceived facilitators or barriers and your perceived control).