Testing self-regulation interventions to increase walking using factorial randomized N-of-1 trials

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Science
• Health Psychology
• Clinical Research Methodology

Background:

• Self-regulation theory provides a framework for behavior change techniques.
• Goal setting and self-monitoring are key components of self-regulation.
• Promoting physical activity, such as walking, is crucial for public health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of N-of-1 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for assessing behavior change interventions.
• To determine if goal setting and self-monitoring techniques promote walking in healthy adults.
• To explore individual participant responses to behavioral interventions.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a series of N-of-1 RCTs with 10 healthy adults over 60 days.
• Employed a factorial design with text message-prompted goal setting and self-monitoring interventions.
• Analyzed data using single-case and multilevel modeling approaches, focusing on daily step counts.

Main Results:

• Individual analyses revealed that 4 participants significantly increased walking with interventions.
• Aggregated analyses showed higher mean step counts on goal-setting and self-monitoring days.
• Multilevel models indicated a significant effect for self-monitoring and a trend for goal setting.

Conclusions:

• N-of-1 RCTs are a viable method for testing behavioral interventions at the individual level.
• Goal setting and self-monitoring show potential for promoting walking, though individual responses vary.
• This methodology supports personalized approaches to behavior change research.