Turning Theory Into Action: Intervention Mapping Program Design

2026/02/05 by Gido Metz, Jeroen Bruinsma, Tugce Varol · 1 voice
Health Professions · Psychology · #Behavioral Health and Interventions #Behavioral and Psychological Studies #Health Policy Implementation Science

paper · pdf · doi:10.62696/was05277

openalex publication_date 2026/02/05 · openalex created_date 2026/02/07 · openalex updated_date 2026/06/11

Abstract

The Intervention Mapping (IM) framework has been widely used to develop behavior change interventions. This paper outlines Step 3 of IM, program design, which focuses on three core tasks: generating program ideas, selecting behavior change methods, and translating these methods into practical applications that meet parameters for effectiveness. In addition, Acyclic Behavior Change Diagrams (ABCDs) are introduced as a tool to support program design and adaptation, illustrated with real-world examples. By providing a practical guide to applying Step 3, we aim to support scholars in developing new behavior change interventions or strengthening existing ones.

Discussions

• 🔔New article! Gido Metz, Jeroen Bruinsma, and Tugce Varol outline Step 3 of Intervention Mapping: Program Design, showing how to generate program ideas, select evidence-based behavior change methods [bsky, 4 points, 0 comments]

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