Theory of Reasoned Action

When I was first drawn to the idea of studying abroad in Japan at the age of 19, I definitely used the technique of the Theory of Reasoned Action to logically, coherently, and victoriously persuade my parents to study abroad.

The Theory of Reasoned Action claims that individuals systematically analyze messages, evaluate all available information, and actively weigh the benefits and risks associated with compliance before making a decision. The theory basically states that humans are logical creatures that make their choices based on the results of the costs and benefits. A reliable indicator for your realistic chances of studying abroad lies in the intent. Behavioral intentions heavily influence the outcome of the actual behavior. Furthermore, we know that behavioral intentions are guided by two major factors which are:

1. A person’s attitude toward a behavior (personal benefits and risks)

2. Subjective norms (compliance with other peoples’ opinions)

By knowing how you and how your parents feel about studying abroad and also assessing your community’s overall approach to the concept of studying abroad can put you at a far advantage.

My biggest obstacles in traveling to Japan basically came down to age and cost. My parents thought I was too young to live in metropolitan Tokyo and believed that I lacked the experience and maturity level to live on my own. Furthermore, the cost of the program wasn’t exactly cheap and I desperately needed to find a way to justify the risks.

Thankfully, they were not against the whole idea of studying abroad and the community they were involved in was openly supportive of my eagerness to study abroad. We talked it out logically and I gave them my beneficial reasons such as expanding international networks, strengthening my Japanese language skills, learning how to live independently, and having my grandparents in Tokyo as a support base. After assessing the benefits and costs, they were agreeable to my decision to study abroad. I had an amazing time, made some lifelong friends, and was able to prove myself to my parents. Try this theory and make sure you come up with some strong beneficial factors in your study abroad trip.