Variations of the model which depict circumstances leading to nonaction are presented in Figure 2-4
One nonaction variation of the health belief model needs explanation. Perceived threat leads to preventive action only when a “reasonable” amount of fear is produced. When the threat becomes overwhelming, the fear can actually inhibit safe behavior. The individual compensates for the stressful emotions by denying or rationalizing the potential harm. Fear may also stimulate a person to magnify existing barriers and to create artificial barriers so that nonaction is assure. This supports the widely held belief that scare techniques in safety education are usually in ineffective (see Figure 2-5).