Theories are tools that help us understand and predict human behavior, and one powerful
framework in this area is the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). The goal of any theory is not only to predict what might happen but also to explain why. While many tools can predict future events, only theories that provide clear explanations are valued in academic circles.
One such framework, TPB, is an extension of an earlier model called the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA). TRA suggests that a person’s intentions to act are shaped by two main factors: their attitudes towards the behavior and the social norms around it. Essentially, if you think something is important and those around you support it, you are more likely to intend to do it—and then follow through.
Dr. Icek Ajzen expanded on this idea by adding a third factor to TRA: perceived behavioral
control. This addition acknowledges that how much control people feel they have over their actions can shape both their intentions and their behavior. For instance, if someone believes they have the power to achieve a goal, they are more likely to pursue and stick to that goal. However, if they feel the situation is out of their hands, even a strong intention might not lead to action.
This third factor makes TPB particularly robust. It allows for a more comprehensive
understanding of behavior, predicting not just what people intend to do but also whether they will actually do it. This insight is valuable because it aligns with real-life experiences: feeling in control influences both what we plan to do and what we actually do.
In summary, TPB builds on its predecessor, TRA, by adding the crucial element of perceived control. This makes it a powerful tool for understanding why people act the way they do, providing a nuanced look at how intentions are formed and followed through, especially when control over the outcome varies.