ACSM Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

According to the Theory of Planned Behavior, what primarily determines an individual's intention to perform a behavior?

1. Social networks

2. Past experiences

3. Attitudes and subjective norms

4. Government regulations

The correct answer is: Attitudes and subjective norms

The Theory of Planned Behavior posits that an individual's intention to perform a behavior is primarily determined by their attitudes toward the behavior, subjective norms surrounding it, and perceived behavioral control. Attitudes refer to the degree to which a person has a favorable or unfavorable evaluation of the behavior in question. Subjective norms involve the perceived social pressure to engage or not engage in the behavior, which can significantly influence an individual's intentions based on what others think. Together, these components form the foundation of the individual's intention, which is a strong predictor of actual behavior. While social networks and past experiences can certainly influence attitudes and subjective norms, they do not directly determine the intention itself as outlined in the Theory. Government regulations might impact behavior but also do not play a direct role in shaping individual intentions according to this theory. Therefore, it is the combination of attitudes and subjective norms that is central to determining the intention to perform a behavior within this framework.