PROTECTION MOTIVATION THEORY AND ADHERENCE TO MEDICAL-TREATMENT REGIMENS FOR MUSCULAR-DYSTROPHY

The current study was a test of the applicability of protection motivation theory to compliance with a medical treatment regimen. Parents of children with muscular dystrophy were assessed on health beliefs, intentions to adhere to a physical therapy program for their child, and behavioral self-report. The structural model of protection motivation theory fit the data; however, only coping appraisal variables contributed significantly. These results were corroborated in path analyses. Threat appraisal appears to operate differently for people experiencing an illness than for those at risk for illness. In addition, protection motivation theory provided a useful explanation for actions taken on the behalf of another person's health (as compared to self-protective actions).