A six-month evaluation of a tailored behaviour change programme for a highly educated study sample

Abstract

Background: To examine if a tailored behavior change programme is more effective in changing behaviour (physical activity, diet, smoking) than a minimal intervention in a highly educated study sample. Methods: The participants (n ¼ 314) were allocated at random to a minimal intervention group (MIG) (n ¼ 106) and a maximal intervention group (MAG) (n ¼ 208). Behavioural outcome measures were reported at baseline (n ¼ 287) and at 6 months. Repeated measures ANOVAs were used to examine differences between the groups and differences due to a different intervention/ surfing intensity for the MAG. Findings: There was no difference between the MIG and the MAG. Time effects were found for different outcomes (e.g. BMI and total energy from fat). Furthermore, significant interaction effects were found for intervention and surfing intensity, independent of baseline stage of change. Discussion: Since more intensive interventions were more likely to provoke behavioural change in this study, it could contribute to future intervention development.