Using the question-behavior effect to promote disease prevention behaviors: two randomized controlled trials.

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Science
• Health Psychology
• Public Health Interventions

Background:

• The question-behavior effect (QBE) is a psychological phenomenon where asking questions about a behavior can increase the likelihood of performing that behavior.
• Previous research suggests QBE's potential, but empirical testing in disease prevention contexts is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of QBE-based interventions in promoting disease prevention behaviors.
• To assess QBE's efficacy in both general populations and healthcare professionals.

Main Methods:

• Two studies were conducted: Study 1 involved general adults and health check attendance; Study 2 involved healthcare professionals and influenza vaccination.
• Participants were randomly assigned to either a QBE condition (completing a relevant questionnaire) or a control condition.
• Objective measures of behavior adoption (health check attendance, vaccination) were used.

Main Results:

• Health check attendance was significantly higher in the QBE group (68.3%) compared to the control group (53.5%) in Study 1.
• Influenza vaccination rates were significantly higher in the QBE group (42.0%) versus the control group (36.3%) in Study 2.
• The positive effects were linked to questionnaire completion and were stronger in individuals with favorable attitudes toward the behaviors.

Conclusions:

• The question-behavior effect is a simple and cost-effective strategy for enhancing disease prevention behaviors.
• QBE interventions show potential for widespread application in public health initiatives targeting both the general public and healthcare professionals.