This introductory text for undergraduate students in professional preparation programs uses plain language and an engaging writing style to explain the major theories of health behavior. After an explanation of how theories are developed and a review of the factors that influence health behavior, chapters are devoted to various theories. Each theory chapter contains a full-length, peer-reviewed journal article and a summary chart of the theory's main ideas. While many of the text's examples of theory in practice are related to college students, other examples use a variety of populations and settings. Chapter activity questions, process diagrams, and b&w photos and illustrations are included. This second edition contains new material on social ecological models and social capital theory. Also new is brief background on the origin of each theory. Hayden teaches public health at William Patterson University. Annotation ©2013 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)