Discuss the relationship between intention and health behaviors

Intention is an indicator of motivation and willingness to change. Intention signals a positive attitude, a valued outcome and the belief that others approve of the behavior. Therefore, these theories are most effective at predicting behavior change for behaviors that are largely under the control of the individual. Intention to perform a behavior can vary in the form of the behavior and the conditions of the behavior, and it can vary over time. First, there may be some versions of a behavior that are more appealing to individuals than other forms. Because of the expected outcomes (attitudes), the norm, and/or one's confidence in performing the behavior, a person's intention can vary. For example, there are forms of physical activity that people are more and less like to participate in. People report a lower intention to participate in moderate to vigorous activity. Common attitudes related to this intention are the expected sweat and discomfort, and the low perceived likelihood of success. Similarly, intention changes over time.?