In this article we provide a review of Protection Motivation Theory with a focus
on the interaction effects and combinatorial rules, in order to resolve
conflicting findings in the literature. Our review suggests that perceived cost
is the main driver of persuasion. We propose that consumers use a combination of
decision-making strategies, with an initial use of the elimination by aspects
rule followed by the weighted additive rule. In the proposed model, consumers
rank the variables and set minimum cut-offs. A weighted additive relationship
takes place only when and if the minimum cut-off levels for variables are met.
This analysis helps explain inconsistent findings from the literature and adds
insight into the decision-making process involved when consumers consider
whether or not to follow a particular recommended health behavior.