The Theory of Planned Behavior extends the Theory of Reasoned Action by adding which factor?

• A. Attitudes, social norms, and perceived behavioral control
• B. Perceived susceptibility and severity
• C. Autonomy
• D. Attitudes, social norms, and perceived behavioral control

Answer: (D)

The essential idea is that behavior is planned based on three influences: your attitude toward the behavior, the social pressure you feel (norms), and your perceived ability to perform the behavior. The Theory of Planned Behavior adds the key element of perceived behavioral control to what the Theory of Reasoned Action already includes (attitudes and norms). Perceived behavioral control represents how much control you think you have over performing the behavior, considering potential barriers and facilitators. This addition matters because when people feel they can control the action, their intentions more reliably translate into actual behavior, even in situations where action isn’t fully voluntary. Among the options, including attitudes, social norms, and perceived behavioral control accurately reflects the Theory of Planned Behavior, since it incorporates the original two components plus the added perceived control. Choices that mention risk perceptions or autonomy don’t fit this framework.