Within the field of health education, Welle, Russell, and Kittleson (1995) determined that five dominant

 Within the field of health education, Welle, Russell, and Kittleson (1995) determined that five dominant philosophies of health education/promotion exist. These include: Behavior change philosophy Cognitive-based philosophy Decision-making philosophy Freeing or functioning philosophy Social change philosophy Although the five identified philosophies for health education and promotion demonstrate that health educators may align specifically to one orientation versus another, these five philosophies do not fully encompass how health educators practice in the field. In fact, while one philosophy may serve to help explain how a certain health education strategy is introduced to an individual or community, another philosophy may be better aligned to the true needs of that individual or community. Thus, in serving to empower individuals and communities to promote health and well-being, the health educator is also empowered to develop their own personal orientation, their foundational approach to health education practice. For this Discussion, review the Learning Resources for this week. Reflect on the philosophies for health education/promotion and consider which philosophy may help inform your philosophy statement for health education.