Predicting Behavioral Intentions Related to Cervical Cancer Screening Using a Three-Level Model for the TPB and SCT in Nanjing, China

Objective: Exploring how the theory of planned behavior (TPB), social capital theory (SCT), cervical cancer knowledge (CCK), and demographic variables predict behavioral intentions (BI) related to cervical cancer screening among Chinese women. Methods: Self-administered questionnaires were distributed to 496 women, followed by a path analysis. Results: The three-level model was acceptable, χ(2)(26, 470) = 26.93, p > 0.05. Subjectively overcoming difficulties, support from significant others, screening necessity, and the objective promotion factor promoted BI, with effect sizes of 0.424, 0.354, 0.199, and 0.124. SCT and CCK promoted BI through TPB, with effect sizes of 0.262 and 0.208. Monthly income, education, age, and childbearing condition affected BI through TPB, SCT, and CCK, with effect sizes of 0.269, 0.105, 0.065, and −0.029. Conclusion: The three-level model systematically predicted behavioral intentions relating to cervical cancer screening.