Table 4 Theoretical methods and practical strategies
From: Using intervention mapping to develop a work-related guidance tool for those affected by cancer
Performance objectives | Behaviour change techniques | Strategies |
|---|---|---|
1. Communicate with relevant stakeholders | Implementation intentions Verbal persuasion (SCT) | Individuals are given the tool by Macmillan Cancer Support staff and/or other support services or they can download from the Macmillan website. One-to-one discussion with Macmillan Cancer Support staff and information available via their website will be given to encourage implementation of intentions (i.e. to discuss work-related issues). A questionnaire format would be used to enhance the usability of the tool. Questions in the tool are tailored to encourage users to take a pro-active approach to obtain relevant information related to potential cancer and work issues (i.e. ‘empowering’ questions). |
2. Request information and support | Goal setting | Through questions posed in the tool, individuals can activate social support at work and from other key stakeholders. Questions will consist of goal setting questions e.g. How can we work together to make decisions about any changes to my job role and description? Each question in the tool will clearly indicate which stakeholder(s) are important to ask. |
| Â | Individualisation (TM) Active processing of information | The guidelines in the tool will provide a clear journey for users to follow, but be flexible enough for them to choose which section applies to them. Written guidelines in the tool will emphasise the flexibility for the individual in choosing one or more important stakeholder to ask the question (from those indicated; and where more than one stakeholder has been identified) as relevant to their needs. |
| Â | Guided practice (SCT) and Enactment (SCT) | The tool is portable in design so that users can take it with them to meetings with relevant stakeholders. Individuals can practice asking the questions beforehand. Using the tool frequently throughout the cancer journey should result in mastery experience. |
3. Assess adequacy of information, resources and support related to work/return to work decisions about work | Decisional balance (SCT) Feedback (ToL) | Individuals write down the feedback given by stakeholders in order to identify obstacles and solutions and to assess which information given, support or resources offered will be most beneficial to them. |
4. Make decisions about work based on information and support utilised | Persuasion Feedback (ToL) | Individuals view and discuss their options and/or decisions with stakeholders as well as with significant others. |
5. Use the work-related guidance tool as often as required through the cancer journey | Implementation intentions Goal setting Shifting focus (TPB) | Individuals use the tool throughout their cancer journey. They re-evaluate their current situation and their needs, and shift their focus by using other questions in the tool to receive appropriate information and support. |