Predicting Risk Behaviors: Development and Validation of a Diagnostic Scale

TLDR

Guided by the Extended Parallel Process Model, the RBD scale uses an easy‑to‑use formula to identify which health risk messages are most appropriate for an individual or audience, offering practitioners guidance on crafting persuasive messages that avoid backfiring and promote behavior change. The goal of this study was to develop and validate the Risk Behavior Diagnosis (RBD) Scale for use by health care providers and practitioners interested in promoting healthy behaviors. The RBD scale was constructed using the Extended Parallel Process Model and incorporates an easy‑to‑use formula to assess which health risk messages best suit a given individual or audience. The study found the RBD scale to exhibit strong content, construct, and predictive validity, and it provides practical examples and suggestions to aid health practitioners in its application.

Abstract

The goal of this study was to develop and validate the Risk Behavior Diagnosis (RBD) Scale for use by health care providers and practitioners interested in promoting healthy behaviors. Theoretically guided by the Extended Parallel Process Model (EPPM; a fear appeal theory),theRBD scale was designed to work in conjunction with an easy-to-use formula to determine which types of health risk messages would be most appropriate for a given individual or audience. Because some health risk messages promote behavior change and others backfire, this type of scale offers guidance to practitioners on how to develop the best persuasive message possible to motivate healthy behaviors. The results of the study demonstrate the RBD scale to have a high degree of content, construct, and predictive validity. Specific examples and practical suggestions are offered to facilitate use of the scale for health practitioners.