What behavior change theory describes the influence of personal factors, environment, and behavior interactions?

Social Cognitive Theory effectively describes the interaction between personal factors, environment, and behavior. This theory emphasizes that individuals are not only influenced by their environments but also actively engage with them. It posits that behavior is a result of the interplay between personal factors such as cognitive processes and attitudes, environmental influences including social norms and opportunities, and the behavior itself.

In this model, individuals learn and adopt new behaviors through the observation of others (observational learning) and the reinforcement they receive. Personal agency plays a key role, suggesting that people can exercise control over their behavior by altering their thoughts and beliefs in response to their surroundings. This holistic perspective on behavioral change is what sets Social Cognitive Theory apart from other theories, which might focus more on specific aspects rather than the entire interaction process.