Investigating the role of appearance-based factors in predicting sunbathing and tanning salon use.
UV exposure via sunbathing and utilization of sun lamps and tanning beds are considered important risk factors for the development of skin cancer. Psychosocial models of UV exposure are often based on theories of health behavior, but theory from the body image field can be useful as well. The current study examines models that prospectively predict sunbathing and indoor tanning behaviors using constructs and interrelationships derived from the tripartite theory of body image, theory of reasoned action, health belief model, revised protection motivation theory, and a proposed integration of several health behavior models. The results generally support a model in which intentions mediate the relationship between appearance attitudes and tanning behaviors, appearance reasons to tan and intentions mediate the relationship between sociocultural influences and tanning behaviors, and appearance reasons not to tan and intentions mediate the role of perceived threat on behaviors. The implications of these findings are considered.
Joel Hillhouse
Guy Cafri
GC
Department of Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Services Research Center, University of California San Diego, 3020 Children’s Way MC 5033, San Diego, CA 92123-4282, USA. cafri@mail.usf.edu
Thompson
J Kevin
JK
Jacobsen
Paul B
PB
Hillhouse
Joel
J
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001828:Body Image; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008960:Models, Psychological; D009042:Motivation; D012306:Risk; D012649:Self Concept; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology*; D055108:Sunbathing / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014466:Ultraviolet Rays / Q000009:adverse effects