The application of staging models to the understanding of health behaviour change and the promotion of health

Health behaviour change programs should be based not only on relevant and demonstrably effective strategies. but also on relevant theories or models. Models such as Social Learning Theory/Social Cognitive Theory and the Transtheoretical Model of Change, for example, may be applied independently or together in a way that may lead to improved intervention outcomes. This paper examines staged approaches to health behaviour change and promoting health. and illustrates how key concepts and variables from other models can be used in conjunction with such a framework to develop more tailored and targeted strategies. An overview of the literature in this field is provided, as well as a description of several case studies where interventions based on matching of theories or models have been successful. The potential for extension of the application of such theories from an individual framework to multiple levels, and at an organisational level or environmental level are explored, whereby the potential reach of intervention programs beyond a relatively small number of individuals is increased while still maintaining acceptable program exposure.