Behavior change: from neurobiology to behavioral change theories and back - part 2

Behavior change remains challenging despite a vast body of evidence linking health behaviors with several health outcomes. Over the past few decades, various health behavioral change theories and techniques have emerged, leading to significant advances in the field. However, although some existing theories provide competent models for structuring approaches, they do not provide a unified neurobiological foundation.

To outline the connections between neuroscientific foundations in Part 1 and behavioral change theories in Part 2 and propose an overarching neuroscientific perspective.

A narrative review of the relevant history and background of the most widely adopted behavior change theories and integrates them into the proposed framework of the Behavior Change Resource Model described in Part 1.

A structured overview of selected theories was performed. The main theories and techniques described were Social Cognitive Theory, Self-Determination Theory, Motivational Interviewing, Behavioral Activation, Transtheoretical Model, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Meditation, Positive Psychology, and Health and Lifestyle Coaching. Finally, their relation to motivation science and the Behavior Change Resource Model was detailed.

By bridging the Behavior Change Resource Model (Part 1), and an array of related theories and techniques (Part 2) it was possible to provide a conceptual perspective to further support and propel the scientific understanding of human behavior, especially towards keeping and expanding health through lifespan and across society.