Read \"Theory, Evidence and Intervention Mapping to Improve Behavior Nutrition a

Question

Read "Theory, Evidence and Intervention Mapping to Improve Behavior Nutrition and Physical Activity Interventions” by Burg, et al., 2005, located in the Reading & Study folder in Module/Week 6. Discuss the following points in your thread. Review the Discussion Board Instructions before posting your thread.

In this position paper the authors debate the proper use of behavioral theory in health promotion interventions. In their paper they cite 2 dictionary definitions for the word, “theory.” Which of the 2 is best suited to the position they are taking and why?

In their discussion the authors point out that, while many behavioral theories are good at explaining current health behavior, they have limited success in predicting changes or improvements in that behavior. Why?

In at least 3 places in their paper, the authors state that the use of Intervention Mapping as a health promotion intervention framework can mitigate some of the limitations of behavioral theory in bringing about health behavior change. Is this a realistic expectation? Why or why not?

Explanation / Answer

1. Which of the 2 definitions of "theory" is best suited to the position they are taking and why?

The two meanings for the word theory are as follows:

- the first meaning shows that theory is an idea that is used to explain any process or reasons. This is based on critical reasoning but cannot be proved with evidences on a complete basis.

- the second meaning gives that theory is based on ideas which comes forward by thinking but is not made on the basis of any evidences or concrete knowledge.

2. In the light of the experiment carried out, the first definition of theory is considered. This is because, in order to study mapping of behaviour nutrition and study, it is important that the study has to be carried out with evidences in hand so that actual results can be obtained and studied.

In their discussion the authors point out that, while many behavioral theories are good at explaining current health behavior, they have limited success in predicting changes or improvements in that behavior. Why?

This happens because there are no integrative pathways that include environmental factors into the studies. Most of the factors concentrate on only one of the aspects being either social or nutritional or physical environmental factors along with the individualised options. Thus, Researchers were not able to predict changes or improvements in behaviour.

3. In at least 3 places in their paper, the authors state that the use of Intervention Mapping as a health promotion intervention framework can mitigate some of the limitations of behavioral theory in bringing about health behavior change. Is this a realistic expectation? Why or why not?

Yes, this is a realistic approach. Though this approach is more cumbersome than simple one dimensional studies, this method can be implemented. This integrates various aspects such as environmental factors and determinants and thus can help in predicting these changes.

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse R
• Subjects

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.