An Investigation into Selected Antecedents of Behavior Modification

Abstract

How can one modify one's behavior? If so, how can one maintain the modified behavior? These are questions relevant to every aspect of our life. There have been many studies that try to explain one's behavior, but relatively few studies on changing and maintaining the changed behavior. As behavior becomes habitual or addictive, it will be more difficult to .modify. Even though one may succeed in modifying behavior temporarily, maintaining the modified behavior will be difficult Such behavior runs a wide gamut from addictive behaviors like alcoholism, smoking, drug abuse to a minor habit like trembling legs while talking. Though they differ in their scope and nature, there are common characteristics. One's intention might be in one direction, while attitude or habits are in the opposite direction. Then there will be a conflict between intention and habit. Thus one's attitudes or intentions are not enough to explain one's behavior. Then what are the factors that are associated with maintaining the modified behavior? This study tries to address this question in the context of quitting smoking.