Crisis behavior: An exploration of theories in concert

Jason B. McConnell, JD, PhD Candidate; Christine Crudo, PhD

doi:10.5055/jem.2015.0238

Authors

Jason B. McConnell, JD, PhD Candidate
Christine Crudo, PhD

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5055/jem.2015.0238

Keywords:

Theory of Planned Behavior, Situational Crisis Communication Theory, crisis behavior self-efficacy, crisis communication, perceived behavioral control

Abstract

Objective: How might prominent existing communication theory better explain behavior in a crisis context, when considered in concert with one another?

Design: This theoretical work highlights the insight to be gained using Situational Crisis Communication Theory and Bandura's notions of self-efficacy to heighten the explanatory power of the Theory of Planned Behavior as applied to communication during times of crisis.

Conclusion: Situational Crisis Communication Theory better explains how past experience with crisis influences the attitudes and social norms of crisis behavior, while Bandura's notion of self-efficacy speaks more directly to the availability of resources as contributing factors to perceived behavioral control in a crisis situation. As such, the incorporation of these well-developed notions into the broader framework of the Theory of Planned Behavior affords greater understanding of the relationship between communication and behavior during a crisis. Further exploration of this theoretical relationship is warranted.

Author Biographies

Jason B. McConnell, JD, PhD Candidate

Edward R. Murrow College of Communication, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington

Christine Crudo, PhD

Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington

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