Iris Kanera

60 Chapter 3 Step 3: Selecting theoretical methods and practical applications In this step, theoretical methods and practical applications for achieving the COs and POs are selected (Bartholomew et al., 2011). A theoretical method is a technique or process for influencing change in the determinants of the targeted behavior. A practical application is a specific technique for practical use of a theoretical method. For example, by means of self-monitoring of behavior ( method ) we aimed to change cancer survivors’ awareness of how they scheduled their daily activities ( determinant ) by encouraging them to register their daily activities for five to seven days ( practical application ) (see Table 3.3). Methods and applications were derived from literature, focus group interviews, and existing interventions (see Step 4, Reviewing Available Materials). Several methods were used in the KNW, such as feedback, personalizing risk, consciousness raising, belief selection, modeling, active learning, persuasive communication, argumentation, goal setting, action planning, and implementation intentions. Twomethods formed the core of the KNW: tailoring and skills training for self-management . These two methods were used throughout the entire intervention and were combined with the other methods to change the determinants of the targeted behaviors. Tailoring Tailoring is a technique in which information is provided that is adapted to the personal characteristics, circumstances, beliefs, motivations, and behavior of the receiver (de Vries & Brug, 1999; Noar, Benac, & Harris, 2007). Thus, by means of tailoring, personalized advice can be provided that suits the cancer survivors’ needs. Overall, tailoring is proven to be an effective technique in health promotion and communication (de Nooijer, Lechner, Candel, & de Vries, 2004; Kuijpers et al, 2013; Noar et al., 2007; Oenema et al., 2008; Peels et al., 2013). Since the information is personalized, less redundant information is provided, attention is increased, information is more thoughtfully processed, and behavior change or maintenance is better facilitated (Brug, Oenema, & Campbell, 2003; de Vries & Brug, 1999; Noar et al., 2007; Rimal & Adkins, 2003). The KNW starts with a screening questionnaire that enables tailoring. Based on their answers, participants receive feedback about which of the seven problem areas deserve their attention (see also Step 4, Screening Questionnaire). When selecting a problem area that the participant wants to work on, the information on that problem is tailored further, eventually resulting in a personalized action plan. Skills training for self-management Self-management is an iterative process that comprises observation of one’s behavior (monitoring), making judgments of behavior based on the observation (evaluation), setting goals, and choosing and applying strategies to achieve these goals (action) (Bartholomew