Training Australian Dietitians in Behavior Change Techniques Through Educational Workshops: Protocol for a Randomized...

Area of Science:

• Health behavior change interventions
• Dietetics professional development
• Health psychology

Background:

• Education alone is insufficient for behavior change in health interventions.
• Health professionals require upskilling in behavior change techniques (BCTs) for effective client support.
• Dietitians report limited training in BCTs and a need for continuous professional development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate the effectiveness and acceptability of two 2-hour behavior change workshops for dietitians.
• To assess changes in dietitians' behavior, capability, opportunity, and motivation in using BCTs.
• To determine the acceptability of the training and its practical application for dietitians.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 140 registered dietitians in Australia.
• Participants assigned to an intervention or waitlist control group, with outcome measures at baseline, post-workshop, and 3-month follow-up.
• Workshops guided by the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, and Behavior (COM-B) model, utilizing BCTs; analysis includes ANOVAs, regressions, and thematic analysis.

Main Results:

• Participant recruitment is complete, with results anticipated in November 2024.
• The study will compare intervention and control groups on BCT use and perceived COM-B factors.
• Acceptability of the training as continuous professional development for dietitians will be assessed.

Conclusions:

• Effective behavior change workshops can guide future professional development for health professionals.
• Findings will enhance understanding of BCT application in dietetic practice.
• The study will identify specific COM-B components requiring further support for dietitians.