title: Theoretical domains: a heuristic for teaching behavioral theory in HIV/STD prevention courses.
abstract: The HIV/STD epidemics have broadened the need for better behavioral intervention programs and highlighted the importance of providing training in behavioral theory to frontline program practitioners. However, there is a lack of effective methods for teaching theoretical concepts to people who may not have a background in behavioral science. This article presents a solution to this challenge by introducing a new heuristic for teaching theory and for placing individual theories/models in a broader context. Using a broad framework, we identify five domains that influence behavior: risk appraisal, self-perceptions, emotions and arousal, relationships and social influence, and environmental and structural factors. Each domain is described, and a brief overview of supporting literature is provided. Following the presentation of domains, we discuss course structure and activities.
authors.affiliation: Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies and the Center for Health and Community, University of California San Francisco, 94143-0848, USA. pdolcini@psg.ucsf.edu
authors.forename: M Margaret
authors.initials: MM
authors.lastname: Dolcini
authors.forename: Lisa
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Canin
authors.forename: Alice
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Gandelman
authors.forename: Heidi
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Skolnik
mesh_terms: D001521:Behavior Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D004644:Emotions; D004777:Environment; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012306:Risk; D012649:Self Concept; D012725:Sexual Behavior; D012749:Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*; D013663:Teaching