Applying and advancing behavior change theories and techniques in the context of a digital health revolution: proposals for more effectively realizing untapped potential

Abstract

As more behavioral health interventions move from traditional to digital platforms, the application of evidence-based theories and techniques may be doubly advantageous. First, it can expedite digital health intervention development, improving efficacy, and increasing reach. Second, moving behavioral health interventions to digital platforms presents researchers with novel (potentially paradigm shifting) opportunities for advancing theories and techniques. In particular, the potential for technology to revolutionize theory refinement is made possible by leveraging the proliferation of “real-time” objective measurement and “big data” commonly generated and stored by digital platforms. Much more could be done to realize this potential. This paper offers proposals for better leveraging the potential advantages of digital health platforms, and reviews three of the cutting edge methods for doing so: optimization designs, dynamic systems modeling, and social network analysis.

Motivating future directions of behavioral medicine

“…While preparation and evaluation are common components of trial design, the focus on optimization or ''the process of finding the best possible solution, subject to the given constraints'' sets MOST apart from traditional RCT designs. Most designs may be particularly applicable in the eHealth or technology based interventions (Moller et al 2016). Alcaraz et al (2016) introduce the ConNECT Framework to link behavioral medicine and health equity in order to achieve equitable health and outcomes in the 21st century.…”

“…Moller et al (2016) present the opportunities provided by three of the cutting edge methods for leveraging the potential of digital platforms: optimization designs, dynamic systems modeling, and social network analysis.…”

Effectiveness of extended contact interventions for weight management delivered via text messaging: a systematic review and meta‐analysis

“…responses to two‐way texts) and other intervention medium (i.e. telephone contact, weigh‐ins or email), and behaviour change techniques key to extended contact interventions. Careful consideration and clear reporting on the behaviour change techniques employed in these interventions . Mediation analysis will improve the understanding of the impact of behaviour change techniques on behaviour maintenance and improve the development and refining of intervention components for extended contact. Measurement and reporting of diet and physical activity outcomes and analysis of their effect on weight maintenance. Clear reporting of indicators of external validity including implementation indicators, economic evaluation and maintenance of outcomes .…”

“…telephone contact, weigh-ins or email), and behaviour change techniques key to extended contact interventions. 2 Careful consideration and clear reporting on the behaviour change techniques employed in these interventions (52). Mediation analysis will improve the understanding of the impact of behaviour change techniques on behaviour maintenance and improve the development and refining of intervention components for extended contact.…”

How Inclusive, User-Centered Design Research Can Improve Psychological Therapies for Psychosis: Development of SlowMo

“…SlowMo reflects the rapid growth of digital technology in mental health care, given its potential to improve access, outcomes and costs [24][25][26]. In psychosis, findings indicate promising rates of acceptability, usability and safety for interventions delivered via the web, text messaging, smartphone apps and virtual reality.…”