FSS 236 - Health Communication: Behavioral Change

1. Explain and apply different psychological theories to fitness clients with different backgrounds and goals.
2. Identify the five (5) stages of change and apply applicable mediators for each stage.    
3. Demonstrate the ability to write effective SMART goals.   

1. Introduction to Psychological Theories
   1.   Behavioral theory
      1. Positive and negative reinforcement
      2. Shaping behavior
   2. Cognitive theories
      1. Attribution theory
      2. Cognitive evaluation theory
      3. Need-achievement theory
      4. Self-efficacy theory
   3. Other theories
      1. Decisional balance theory
      2. Ecological theory
      3. Relapse prevention theory
   4. Cognitive and behavioral processes
2. Stages of Change
   1. Delineation of the five relevant stages of change
   2. Assessment of client readiness for stated lifestyle goals
   3. Stratification of techniques and strategies most useful at various stages
      1. Moderators/sub-groupings
      2. Mediators/facilitation techniques
   4. Development of activities to focus clients in particular stages
      1. Teaching techniques and elements of a “lesson” or “client activity”
         1. Stating objectives for the lesson
         2. Use of specific feedback and knowledge of results
      2. Matching activities to the stage of readiness
      3. Sequencing activities to foster commitment to lifestyle changes
      4. Developing SMART goals
         1. Specific
         2. Measurable
         3. Action-oriented
         4. Realistic
         5. Time bound
3. Communication Techniques
   1. Verbal and non-verbal communication
   2. Reflective listening techniques
      1. Using open ended questions
      2. IDEA approach to problem solving