TY - JOUR
T1 - A causal modelling approach to the development of theory-based behaviour change programmes for trial evaluation
AU - Hardeman, Wendy
AU - Sutton, Stephen
AU - Griffin, Simon
AU - Johnston, Marie
AU - White, Anthony
AU - Wareham, Nicholas J.
AU - Kinmonth, Ann Louise
PY - 2005/12
Y1 - 2005/12
N2 - Theory-based intervention programmes to support health-related behaviour change aim to increase health impact and improve understanding of mechanisms of behaviour change. However, the science of intervention development remains at an early stage. We present a causal modelling approach to developing complex interventions for evaluation in randomized trials. In this approach a generic model links behavioural determinants, causally through behaviour, to physiological and biochemical variables, and health outcomes. It is tailored to context, target population, behaviours and health outcomes. The development of a specific causal model based on theory and evidence is illustrated by the ProActive programme, supporting increased physical activity among individuals at risk of Type 2 diabetes. The model provides a rational guide to appropriate measures, intervention points and intervention techniques, and can be tested quantitatively. Causal modelling is critically compared to other approaches to intervention development and evaluation, and research directions are indicated.
AB - Theory-based intervention programmes to support health-related behaviour change aim to increase health impact and improve understanding of mechanisms of behaviour change. However, the science of intervention development remains at an early stage. We present a causal modelling approach to developing complex interventions for evaluation in randomized trials. In this approach a generic model links behavioural determinants, causally through behaviour, to physiological and biochemical variables, and health outcomes. It is tailored to context, target population, behaviours and health outcomes. The development of a specific causal model based on theory and evidence is illustrated by the ProActive programme, supporting increased physical activity among individuals at risk of Type 2 diabetes. The model provides a rational guide to appropriate measures, intervention points and intervention techniques, and can be tested quantitatively. Causal modelling is critically compared to other approaches to intervention development and evaluation, and research directions are indicated.
UR - http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?scp=27644593337&partnerID=8YFLogxK
U2 - 10.1093/her/cyh022
DO - 10.1093/her/cyh022
M3 - Article
C2 - 15781446
AN - SCOPUS:27644593337
VL - 20
SP - 676
EP - 687
JO - Health Education Research
JF - Health Education Research
SN - 0268-1153
IS - 6
ER -
