The purpose of this study was to review behavior change theories in terms of important variables, concept definitions, and applicability to diabetes self-management behavior. Methods: Six behavior change theories (the Transtheoretical Model, the Healt...
The purpose of this study was to review behavior change theories in terms of important variables, concept definitions, and applicability to diabetes self-management behavior. Methods: Six behavior change theories (the Transtheoretical Model, the Health Belief Model, the Theory of Reasoned Action, the Theory of Planned Behavior, Social cognitive theory, and Information-Motivation-Behavioral skills Model) were reviewed which were applied in diabetes self-management interventions. Results: The five key concepts from the five non-stage behavior change theories were delineated. Based on the key concepts, a theoretical framework was formulated as the explanatory model of diabetes self-management behaviors. The four major concepts in Information-Motivation-Behavioral skills Model were included. The cognitive arm of the proposed theoretical framework included constructs related to diabetes knowledge, motivation (beliefs, attitude, social norm), self-efficacy, and intention. Conclusion: The theoretical framework described here includes the key factors of successful diabetes self-management intervention. However, the concept of motivation needs further exploration and clarification for operationalization.