Testing and integrating social cognitive models of health behaviour (change)

Abstract

Symposium overview abstract: Aims: The symposium aims to give an overview of international research on different social cognitive models to explain health behaviour (change). Furthermore, the symposium will clarify the separate and combined contribution of current social cognitive models to create a better understanding of a wide range of health behaviours such as smoking cessation, physical activity, and alcohol consumption. Additionally, it will give insight into how the integration of models can lead to more effective interventions. Rationale: Health behaviour (change) is complex and often influenced by many different factors. Testing and integrating models of health behaviour (change) will contribute to a better understanding of health behaviour (change). This is necessary to effectively construct new interventions to promote health and prevent diseases. Summary: The symposium will consist of four unique presentations (á 15 minutes) that focus on the integration and testing of different social cognitive models with regard to health behaviour (change). Teixeira will open the symposium with a review of how Self-Determination theory has been applied and tested for health behaviour change, alongside other social cognitive models. Gomez Quiñonez will then focus on the added value of an integrated change model with regard to different health behaviours. Conner will address the integration of affective influences and social cognitive models, and how this can improve our understanding of health behaviours. Finally, Norman will present an intervention on students’ alcohol consumption based on a combination of self-affirmation, messages based on the theory of planned behaviour and implementation intentions.