Behaviour Change Dr Sophie Edwards

What is health psychology?

• Health psychology is a branch of psychology that focuses

on how biology, psychology, behaviour, and social

factors influence health and illness.

• Takes a biopsychosocial approach to intervention

design

• One of its primary concerns is bridging the ‘intention-

behaviour gap’

• Does no see physical and mental health as distinct areas but

takes a holistic view of health and wellbeing

What is Behaviour change?

• In the context of public health, behaviour change refers to theories, frameworks and strategies used to change the publics habits to prevent disease

• Largely focused on smoking, diet and physical activity in order to prevent cancer, cardiovascular disease, respiratory diseasee and diabetes.

• Several theories including the transtheoretical theory of change, theory of planned behaviour, health belief model but also include social-cognitive theory, relapse prevention models and self-regulation models.

A biopsychosocial approach to wellbeing

Models of change: the

transtheoretical model

Models of change: The health belief

model

Behaviour change

techniques

• Environmental restructuring

• Analysing and changing habits

• Stress management

• Planning

• Connecting with core values

• Targeted psychoeducation

• Skills training

• Modelling

• Self-monitoring (behaviour, thoughts and emotions)

• Goal setting

• Utilising social support

• Barrier identification

Building motivation using BC theory

Client A

• Recently diagnosed with diabetes • Never taken part in formal

exercise • Busy life with children and job so

unsure where exercise will fit

Client B • We involved in sport and exercise a lot at

school • Since having children she has gained a lot of

weight • Is intimidated by gyms and exercise classes

but knows activity will help her mental and physical health

We have two clients, both considering getting more active. What behaviour change constructs are significant when formulating a care plan for these individuals?

Building a rapport

• Active listening skills

• Open ended questions

• Reflections

• Affirmations

• Express empathy

• Be non-judgemental

• Reframe from giving premature advice

Tailoring your approach to different bodies

• Be mindful of ability levels and remember that not all disability is visible

• Activity level recommendations are not always appropriate

• Do not assume weight loss is a motivating factor in those with bigger bodies

• Be aware of stigmatising language e.g. the majority of larger-bodied clients report not liking the word obesity

• Activity needs to be enjoyable and leave clients feeling empowered NOT a punishment for a high BMI or health condition

• Rest is extremely important in a lot of mental and physical health conditions- people should never feel guilty for taking time out

Summary

• Just telling people what to do doesn’t always work

• Building a rapport is one of the most important aspects of

working with clients

• Use behaviour change models to structure your

assessments

• Once you get the full story you can select the correct

behaviour change techniques