Integrating the HBM and the PEN-3 model to explain the health behavior of persons with DLD

Background: Investigating factors that dictate the health-seeking process in persons with developmental language disorders (DLDs) is critical for enhancing early intervention and effective utilization of treatment services among persons with DLDs. This study sought to understand factors that determine health seeking in persons with DLDs using the Health Belief Model (HBM) and the PEN-3 model. Methods: A qualitative study of 36 semi-structured interviews explored health-seeking behavior among stakeholders involved in the management of children with DLDs. Interviews were conducted with parents, teachers, and speech-language therapists on health behaviors and factors that dictate health behavior during intervention seeking. Data coding was done inductively, and analysis was carried out using qualitative content analysis. Results: Findings revealed that both the HBM and the PEN-3 model were well represented in the dataset, and that integration of both models contributes to a systematic understanding of health behavior in persons with DLDs. Conclusion: The study details how demographic, psychological, and sociocultural variables interact to shape the health-seeking process among persons with DLDs and the resulting impact of these interactions on the effective management of DLDs.