Background

Even with great intention to change behavior, many people do not take action, and this discrepancy is called the intention-behavior gap. Studies estimate the gap is as high as 46%, a figure of some significance in health behavior change. This paper explores the intention-behavior gap in the context of social prescribing in the UK. Social prescribing aims to reduce the burden of illness on the NHS through healthier lifestyles but the key to success is behavior change. The current limitations in behavior change theories are considered and the impact this has on the NHS. A positive psychology framework is proposed to help reduce the intention-behavior gap.

Aims

1. To view the current research addressing the intention-behavior gap and whether this is effective.

2. Consider the current problems of measurement and evaluation within social prescribing and the potential impact of the intention-behavior gap.

3. Propose an alternative solution based on a positive psychology framework and positive psychology interventions to reduce the intention-behavior gap.

Results

Several meta-analyses have shown that the predominant theory being used to address the gap, Theory of Planned Behavior, is not a good predictor of behavior change and yet there is limited evidence of alternative theories being used. Self-determination theory offers an alternative framework to help behavior change by considering how we can move along the continuum from extrinsic to intrinsic motivation. Following an extensive literature review, alternative positive psychological interventions were shown to increase motivation and thus contribute to reducing the intention-behavior gap.

Conclusion

Six evidence based interventions that contribute towards building motivation and thus bridge the gap are proposed as well as recommendations for how these could be delivered through social prescribing. They are mindfulness, building positive emotions, developing a growth mindset, developing implementation intentions, mental contrasting, and building self-control. Offering support to help people bridge the gap could have a significant impact on the effectiveness of social prescribing and helping people change their behavior.