Which of the following is not part of the core constructs of the Theory of Planned Behavior?

• A. Self-efficacy
• B. Attitudes toward the behavior
• C. Subjective norms
• D. Perceived behavioral control

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is how the Theory of Planned Behavior explains why people intend to perform a behavior and actually do it. In this theory, the three driving factors are how favorable a person’s attitude is toward the behavior, what they think important others want them to do (subjective norms), and how much control they believe they have over performing the behavior (perceived behavioral control). Self-efficacy, while related to a person’s confidence in their ability to act, is not listed as one of the core constructs in this theory. It comes from a different framework (Social Cognitive Theory) and, although it can influence perceived behavioral control, TPB explicitly names attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control as the key elements shaping intention and behavior. Therefore, self-efficacy is not a core construct of the Theory of Planned Behavior. For example, when encouraging a patient to start a new exercise routine, you’d assess their attitude toward exercising, the influence of friends or family, and their perceived ease or difficulty of being able to exercise (their perceived behavioral control). Self-efficacy would be a related consideration, but not one of the primary constructs in TPB.