Certified in Public Health (CPH) Practice Exam

What do social cognitive theory and the social ecological model share in common?

1. Focus on environmental determinants only

2. All behaviors are linked to external policy interventions

3. Consider both individual and environmental factors

4. Exclusively developed to address healthy behaviors

The correct answer is: Focus on environmental determinants only

The correct answer highlights that both social cognitive theory and the social ecological model take into account the interaction between individual behaviors and their environmental context. This is significant because these approaches recognize that behavior is not only influenced by personal choices but also by external social, economic, and environmental factors. Social cognitive theory emphasizes the role of observational learning, imitation, and modeling in behavior, while the social ecological model involves multiple layers of influence, including societal and community factors. By considering both individual characteristics and the broader environmental context, these theories provide a more comprehensive understanding of health behaviors and help design effective interventions. In contrast, focusing solely on environmental determinants or external policy interventions would narrow the perspective to only one aspect of behavior. Additionally, while they can be used to address healthy behaviors, their applicability is broader, and they are not exclusively developed for that purpose.