Predicting low-fat diet intentions and behaviors for the prevention of coronary heart disease: An application of protection motivation theory among an australian population

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Abstract
This study developed psychometric scales to measure the main components of Rogers' (1983) Protection Motivation Theory (PMT). It was conducted in the context of a community survey (n = 800) examining respondents' intentions and self-reported behavior of following a low-fat diet to prevent coronary heart disease (CHD). PMT's coping appraisal components of self-efficacy and response efficacy produced positive significant associations with outcome measures related to low-fat diet. However, the theory's threat appraisal variables of vulnerability and severity failed to yield a positive relationship with intentions and behavior. We conclude that health education should primarily focus on positive coping messages to motivate members of the community to follow a low-fat diet for the prevention of CHD.