Which theory argues that education builds cognitive skills and problem-solving abilities that enable individuals to make healthier choices, understand health information, and navigate health systems more effectively?

• A. Human capital
• B. Credentialing (or signaling)
• C. Fundamental cause
• D. Systemic review of evidence

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is that education functions as human capital, helping people build cognitive skills and problem-solving abilities that translate into healthier choices, better understanding of health information, and more effective navigation of health systems. When someone has stronger general skills and health literacy from education, they’re better at evaluating risks, following medical instructions, and knowing how to access preventive care or services.

This is the best fit because the statement explicitly links education to cognitive skill development and practical health capabilities, not just credentials or signaling. Credentialing focuses on education as a signal to employers, not on building skills used in health. Fundamental cause theory explains how resources like money and social advantage shape health disparities but doesn’t specify education’s role in expanding cognitive skills for health in this way. Systematic review of evidence is a method, not a theory.