Strategies for modification of health behaviours

Abstract

Various techniques of behaviour modification as related to health behaviours were examined in this paper. Modification of health behaviour is based on the fact that most of the twenty first century illnesses and diseases are preventable, hence the need for the adoption of health enhancing behaviour and modification of health compromising behaviour. Several approaches were examined, which included the use of attitude and belief change, in the form of fear and information appeal, role of theory in behaviour modification and cognitive behavioural approaches to health behaviour change. Self-directed behaviour change techniques, and broad spectrum multimode procedures were also discussed. The preventive methods that could be useful in guiding against relapse and appropriate venue for health-habit modification were also considered.

IFE PsychologIA Vol. 14(2) 2006: 263-294