Skip to main content
Article
Investigating the Role of Appearance-Based Factors in Predicting Sunbathing and Tanning Salon Use
Journal of Behavioral Medicine
  • Guy Cafri, Child and Adolescent Services Research Center
  • J. K. Thompson, University of South Florida, Tampa
  • Paul B. Jacobsen, University of South Florida, Tampa
  • Joel Hillhouse, East Tennessee State University
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
12-1-2009
Description

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.

Citation Information
Guy Cafri, J. K. Thompson, Paul B. Jacobsen and Joel Hillhouse. "Investigating the Role of Appearance-Based Factors in Predicting Sunbathing and Tanning Salon Use" Journal of Behavioral Medicine Vol. 32 Iss. 6 (2009) p. 532 - 544 ISSN: 0160-7715
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/joel-hillhouse/58/