Theories and techniques of behaviour change

The article by Susan Michie and Marie Johnston titled “Theories and techniques of behaviour change: Developing a cumulative science of behaviour change” discusses the importance of understanding and integrating various behavior change theories and techniques to create effective interventions. Here’s a detailed explanation based on the concepts discussed in the paper:

1. Understanding Behavior Change Theories

Behavior change theories provide the framework for understanding why and how people change their behaviors. These theories often address multiple aspects, such as the motivations, capabilities, opportunities, and triggers that drive behavior. Some well-known theories include:

• Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB): This theory suggests that behavior is driven by behavioral intentions, which are influenced by attitudes towards the behavior, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control.
• Protection Motivation Theory (PMT): Focuses on how individuals respond to perceived threats and their ability to cope with the threat. It considers threat appraisal and coping appraisal.
• Social Cognitive Theory (SCT): Emphasizes the role of observational learning, social experiences, and reciprocal determinism in behavior change.

2. Behavior Change Techniques (BCTs)

Behavior Change Techniques are specific strategies or interventions derived from behavior change theories. They are the practical tools used to implement the theoretical concepts. Examples of BCTs include:

• Goal Setting: Encouraging individuals to set specific, measurable, and achievable goals.
• Self-Monitoring: Individuals track their own behaviors to increase awareness and facilitate change.
• Feedback: Providing information on performance to reinforce or correct behavior.

3. Designing Behavior Change Interventions

Theories and techniques must be aligned in practice. Effective behavior change interventions are typically designed by mapping specific BCTs to the underlying behavior change theories. This process involves:

• Identifying the target behavior: Clearly defining the behavior you want to change.
• Selecting relevant theories: Choosing the theories that best explain the factors influencing the target behavior.
• Mapping BCTs to theories: Aligning the chosen theories with appropriate behavior change techniques to create an intervention.

4. Cumulative Science of Behavior Change

Michie and Johnston emphasize the importance of developing a cumulative science of behavior change. This involves systematically evaluating and integrating various theories and techniques to build a robust, evidence-based framework for designing interventions. The goal is to create a comprehensive understanding that can be applied across different contexts and behaviors.

5. Application in Practice

In practice, this approach helps practitioners to develop interventions that are not only theoretically sound but also practically effective. By connecting specific behavior change techniques to the theories that support them, practitioners can design interventions that are more likely to achieve the desired outcomes.

Book Reference:

If you’re interested in further exploring these concepts, consider reading:

• “Health Psychology: Theory, Research and Practice” by David F. Marks, Michael Murray, Brian Evans, and Emee Vida Estacio. This book provides an extensive overview of health psychology, including behavior change theories and interventions.
• “The Behaviour Change Wheel: A Guide to Designing Interventions” by Susan Michie, Lou Atkins, and Robert West. This book offers a comprehensive guide to using behavior change theories and techniques in practice, building on the concepts discussed in the 2012 paper.

These resources will provide a deeper understanding of the theories and techniques of behavior change and their practical application in designing interventions