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Table 5 Behaviour change techniques used in the SMS-text based Lighten UP Plus intervention

From: Evaluation of a text supported weight maintenance programme ‘Lighten Up Plus’ following a weight reduction programme: randomised controlled trial

Name of behavioural change technique

Description

Provide information on consequences of behaviour in general

Information about the relationship between the behaviour and its possible or likely consequences in the general case, usually based on epidemiological data, and not personalised for the individual

Example text message

Your weight has increased a little bit. Eating more and exercising less can lead to you gaining weight. Plan your meals and walk instead of taking the car.

Goal setting (outcome)

The person is encouraged to set a general goal that can be achieved by behavioural means but is not defined in terms of behaviour (e.g. to reduce blood pressure or lose/maintain weight), as opposed to a goal based on changing behaviour as such.

Example text message

Remember to watch your weight! It’s ok to have a treat occasionally but not too often. Try to spend less time sitting and more moving next week.

Prompt review of behavioural goals

Involves a review or analysis of the extent to which previously set behavioural goals (e.g. take more exercise next week) were achieved. In most cases this will follow previous goal setting and an attempt to act on those goals, followed by a revision or readjustment of goals, and/ or means to attain them.

Example text message

Hi, this is FLO. Please send your weight reading in kgs. Have you gained weight this week? (e.g. WT 86.5 No)

Prompt rewards contingent on effort or progress towards behaviour

Involves the person using praise or rewards for attempts at achieving a behavioural goal. This might include efforts made towards achieving the behaviour, or progress made in preparatory steps towards the behaviour, but not merely participation in intervention.

Example text message

Weigh to go!! You’ve not gained weight! You set yourself a goal and achieved it. Brilliant!

Prompt self-monitoring of behavioural outcome

The person is asked to keep a record of specified measures expected to be influenced by the behaviour change, e.g. blood pressure, blood glucose, weight loss, physical fitness.

Example text message

Hi, it’s FLO. You will shortly receive a text asking about your weight. Start your message with “WT” then “Your weight in kgs” and “Yes or No” e.g. WT 80.5 Yes”

Provide feedback on performance

This involves providing the participant with data about their own recorded behaviour or commenting on a person’s behavioural performance

Example text message

Brilliant! It takes a lot of willpower to lose weight. Keep going and you will reach your target!