Certified in Public Health (CPH) Practice Exam

Which of the following terms from the social cognitive theory refers to the dynamic interaction among the person, environment, and behavior?

1. Behavioral norms

2. Reciprocal determinism

3. Decisional balance

4. Bidirectional dependence

The correct answer is: Reciprocal determinism

Reciprocal determinism is a key concept within social cognitive theory that emphasizes the interplay between an individual’s personal factors, their behavior, and the environment in which they operate. This concept asserts that these three elements are not only interrelated but also influence each other in a dynamic manner. For instance, a person’s thoughts and emotions can affect their actions, while those actions can subsequently impact their environment and shape future thoughts and feelings. This creates a continuous feedback loop where each component influences and is influenced by the others, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of human behavior in a social context. Behavioral norms, while related, refer specifically to the expectations about how individuals should behave in a given social group and do not encompass the broader dynamic interaction captured in reciprocal determinism. Decisional balance involves weighing the pros and cons of a behavior to make a choice but does not address the interplay of personal, behavioral, and environmental factors. Bidirectional dependence is a less commonly used term and does not specifically capture the comprehensive nature of the interactions described in reciprocal determinism.