Connecting perceptual control theory with health behavior

Book chapter

Sigger, J. 2023. Connecting perceptual control theory with health behavior. in: Mansell, W., de Hullu, E., Huddy, V. and Scholte, T. (ed.) The Interdisciplinary Handbook of Perceptual Control Theory, Volume 2: Living in the Loop Elsevier.
Chapter titleConnecting perceptual control theory with health behavior
AuthorsSigger, J.
Abstract

This chapter presents a case for bringing a perceptual control theory (PCT; Powers, 1973) perspective into health psychology. The central thesis is that PCT offers new insights for health and health research that go beyond the conventional cognitive-behavioral mainstream theories that inform health behavior change interventions. The main contribution being that PCT offers a coherent definition of health and an explanation of health behavior and health behavior variability under invariant reference states or goals. The chapter summarizes the process of gathering initial evidence for perceptual control, presents a case study on variability in hand hygiene, and describes how behavior change in dieting and quitting smoking can be framed as processes of control loops.

KeywordsHealth psychology; Perceptual control; Hand hygiene; Behavior change
Sustainable Development Goals3 Good health and well-being
6 Clean water and sanitation
10 Reduced inequalities
Middlesex University ThemeCreativity, Culture & Enterprise
Sustainability
Health & Wellbeing
Book titleThe Interdisciplinary Handbook of Perceptual Control Theory, Volume 2: Living in the Loop
EditorsMansell, W., de Hullu, E., Huddy, V. and Scholte, T.
PublisherElsevier
ISBN
Paperback9780323911658
Electronic9780323998413
Publication dates
Print17 Mar 2023
Online24 Mar 2023
Publication process dates
Deposited24 Apr 2023
Output statusPublished
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91165-8.00005-6
LanguageEnglish
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