The Effects of Target Behavior Choice and Self-Management Skills Training on Compliance with Behavioral Self-Monitoring

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate two potential methods for increasing participant compliance with behavioral self-monitoring (BSM). DESIGN: A randomized 2 × 2 factorial design was used to evaluate the effects of target behavior choice (choice vs. assigned) and self-management skills training (training vs. no-training) on BSM compliance. In the choice manipulation, participants either chose or were assigned one of seven types of healthful or safe behaviors to self-monitor. In the training manipulation, participants either completed computer-based self-management skills training or received no training. Participants were then asked to complete daily BSM for 2 weeks. SETTING: The study was conducted at a university and teaching hospital. SUBJECTS: Participants (N=60) were predominantly university and hospital employees. MEASURES: The primary dependent measure was percent compliance with BSM. ANALYSIS: A factorial analysis of variance of compliance scores was performed. RESULTS: Mean compliance with prescribed BSM was 52.6% (SD=31.8). The main effect for choice was significant, with choice participants showing 18% higher BSM compliance than those in no-choice conditions (d=.59; p<.05). The effects of self-management skills training and the interaction term were both nonsignificant. CONCLUSION: Although self-management skills training did not appear to affect BSM compliance, offering individuals a choice in target behavior substantially increased both BSM compliance and self-reported behavior change.