Tailoring a Fruit and Vegetable Intervention on Novel Motivational Constructs: Results of a Randomized Study

• DOI: 10.1007/s12160-008-9028-9
• Publication Date: 2008-04-09T16:12:14Z
• Authors: Ken Resnicow; Rachel E. Davis; Guangyu Zhang; Janine Konkel; Victor J. Strecher; Abdul R. Shaikh; Dennis Tolsma; Josephine Calvi; Gwen Alexander; Julia P. Anderson; Cheryl Wiese
• Keywords: Motivational Interviewing; Social Cognitive Theory; Health psychology

Tailored health communications to date have been based on a rather narrow set of theoretical constructs. This study was designed test whether tailoring print-based fruit and vegetable (F & V) intervention relatively novel constructs from self-determination theory (SDT) motivational interviewing (MI) increases impact, perceived relevance, program satisfaction. The also aimed explore possible user characteristics that may moderate response. African American adults were recruited two integrated care delivery systems, one in the Detroit Metro area other Atlanta area, then randomized receive three tailored newsletters over 3 months. One only demographic social cognitive variables (control condition), whereas (experimental condition) SDT MI principles strategies. primary focus outcome for intake assessed with brief self-report measures. Preference autonomy support at baseline single item: "In general, when it comes my I would an expert just tell me what should do". Most between-group differences examined using change scores. A total 512 (31%) eligible participants, 1,650 invited, enrolled, which 423 provided complete 3-month follow-up data. Considering entire sample, there no significant daily F V month follow-up. Both groups showed similar around serving per day short form half long form. There were, however, interactions group preference autonomy-supportive communication as well age. Specifically, individuals experimental who, baseline, preferred style increased their by 1.07 servings compared 0.43 among controls. Among younger controls, larger intake, 0.59 servings, than counterparts, 0.29 servings. Conversely, older participants V, 1.09 0.48. Our confirms importance assessing individual potential moderators interventions. For those who prefer communication, values can enhance message impact relevance.