Bridging the gap between goal intentions and actions: a systematic review in patient populations

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the evidence for the effectiveness of if-then implementation intentions (if-then plans) in adult patient populations. Outcomes of interest included adherence, goal pursuit and physical health outcomes.Method: Keywords were used to search electronic databases without date or language restrictions (up to 30/4/14). Studies were included if they 1) concerned a patient population; 2) used if-then plans as a sole intervention or as part of treatment, therapy or rehabilitation; 3) if they were randomised controlled trials. The PEDro scale was used to evaluate study quality. Guidance as set out by the Cochrane Collaboration was used. Two reviewers independently extracted data, discrepancies were discussed and if required referred to a third reviewer.Results: 18 of 2,141 articles were identified as potentially relevant and four studies of people with epilepsy, chronic back pain, stroke and obesity met the inclusion criteria. People who form if-then plans achieved better outcomes on epilepsy and stroke medication adherence and physical capacity than controls. Conclusions:Of the four studies that used an if-then plan only one, with people with epilepsy, looked at the intervention as a stand-alone strategy. Further research needs to explore if this simple approach improves rehabilitation outcomes and is a helpful and feasible strategy for people experiencing disabilities.

Bridging the goal intention–action gap in rehabilitation: a study ofif-thenimplementation intentions in neurorehabilitation

“…Previous studies of implementation intentions in clinical populations have not specifically explored if-then plans [33]. This study highlights that if-then' plans are feasible and acceptable in bridging the goal intention-action gap in rehabilitation with people with MS and stroke, who are experiencing difficulties with mobility.…”

“…Our recent systematic review of this approach with clinical populations revealed four studies that had used this successfully [33]. These studies showed that people who form if-then plans achieve better outcomes on medication adherence (in epilepsy and stroke) [34][35][36], physical capacity (when combined with Mental Contrasting & Cognitive Behavioural Therapy in chronic back pain) [37], and physical activity (in obese older adults) [38] than controls.…”

Structured Goal Planning and Supportive Telephone Follow‐up in Rheumatology Care: Results From a Pragmatic, Stepped‐Wedge, Cluster‐Randomized Trial

“…Third, previous research has shown that formulating goal intentions does not necessarily translate into goal‐directed behavior or goal attainment, a discrepancy commonly referred to as the intention‐behavior gap . Keeping a healthy lifestyle requires continued effort from the patients themselves, and the results of this study indicate that it takes >4 phone calls to support patients in maintaining healthy behaviors over time.…”

The Biopsychosocial Model: Application to Occupational Therapy Practice

“…Screening and provision of educational interventions may address cognitive factors relating to psychological considerations, such as past and current maladaptive coping strategies, available coping resources and supports, knowledge of stressors, and adaptive-positive coping strategies. Evidence-based cognitive coping strategies may include imagery, relaxation techniques (breathing, progressive muscle relaxation), positive self-talk, and goal-setting (Covassin, Beidler, Ostrowksi, & Wallace, 2015;Granquist et al, 2014;Kersten, McCambridge, Kayes, Theadom, & McPherson, 2015).…”