Analyzing Dietary Behaviors Self-reported by People With Diabetes Using a Behavior Change Technique Taxonomy

Abstract

ObjectiveWe aimed to explore both the dietary-related behavior change techniques (BCTs) adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D) described to enact themselves and the BCTs they perceived their dietitians to enact within consultations. DesignQualitative study involving semistructured telephone interviews with adults who consulted with a dietitian after their T2D diagnosis. Participants shared their experience of dietary behavior change and interactions with dietitians. SettingTelephone-based interviews from an Australian university setting. ParticipantsTwenty-one adults (12 females and 9 males) aged 36–75 years were self-selected and invited by email. Phenomenon of InterestDietary behavior changes reportedly enacted after a T2D diagnosis by participants and their dietitians. AnalysisTranscripts were analyzed through thematic content analysis according to the BCT taxonomy. ResultsParticipants described several BCTs such as problem-solving and self-monitoring (behavior), which helped their dietary behavior change. Participants perceived their dietitians to use BCTs, including goal setting (outcome), self-monitoring (behavior), and instruction on how to perform the behavior. These participants who had consulted with a dietitian reported additional techniques than those prescribed in the consultation process. Conclusions and ImplicationsAdults with T2D undertake a variety of BCTs to support dietary behavior change. Dietitians can draw on behavior change taxonomies to support behavior change in clients.