Final answer:
The Theory proper in Pender's Health Promotion Model refers to the central concept that health-promotive behavior is influenced by the interaction of individual characteristics, behavior-specific cognitions and affect, and behavioral outcomes. It is the heart of the model and not merely related to applications or research methodologies. Therefore, the correct answer is a.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Pender's Health Promotion Model, the Theory proper refers to the central concept of the model, which is health promotion. Essentially, the Theory proper articulates that health-promotive behavior is the outcome of the interaction between an individual and their environment. This includes individual characteristics and experiences, behavior-specific cognitions and affect, and behavioral outcomes.
According to this model, each person has unique personal characteristics that affect their actions. Cognitions and affect related to the behavior are vital; they include perceived benefits of action, barriers to action, self-efficacy, and activity-related affect.
The model suggests that the more favorable the subjective valuation of a behavior's outcome, the more likely the individual will adopt the behavior. The Theory proper, therefore, is not just related to practical applications or research methodologies, but is an integrated perspective on how various factors influence individuals to engage in health-promoting behaviors.
Therefore, the correct answer is a) The Theory proper refers to the central concept of Pender's Health Promotion Model. It delineates how individual beliefs and affective states influence health-promoting behavior.