Publication
Title
Brisk walking with a smile : tailoring to the internal dynamic determinant of cognitive fatigue by using humorous physical activity intervention messages
Author
Abstract
Physical inactivity is a widespread global concern, demanding innovative interventions. Just-in-Time Adaptive Interventions (JITAIs) offer promise, yet their effectiveness in addressing internal dynamic determinants of behaviour change remains to be optimised. Cognitive fatigue, an often-overlooked determinant, presents a significant challenge to regular physical activity engagement. This doctoral dissertation centres on enhancing physical activity interventions, with a focus on moderate-intensity brisk walking. It investigates how cognitive fatigue impacts physical activity through controlled experiments and real-life scenarios. Additionally, it explores humour as a behaviour change technique (BCT) to tackle cognitive fatigue within JITAIs. Drawing from the findings of four empirical studies (a survey, two online experiments, and a field experiment), this dissertation aims to address four key questions: (1) How does cognitive fatigue affect moderate-intensity brisk walking in inactive individuals? (2) What is the moderation effect of cognitive fatigue on brisk walking behaviours in controlled versus real-world settings for inactive individuals? (3) Which BCTs are most effective for inactive individuals with cognitive fatigue? (4) Are humorous messages, such as cat memes, effective in enhancing moderate-brisk walking in cognitively fatigued individuals? As such, this doctoral dissertation contributes valuable insights into the complex interplay of physical activity promotion, cognitive fatigue, and behavioural change techniques. While the direct impact of cognitive fatigue on brisk walking may not be as pronounced as previously assumed, its influence on other determinants, such as self-control and perceptions of (humorous) intervention messages, proves significant. The research suggests that humour, as a behavioural change technique, shows promise in alleviating the adverse effects of cognitive fatigue on brisk walking intentions. Nonetheless, further exploration is warranted to fully comprehend the potential of humour and to explore different forms of humorous messages. The evolving technological landscape presents opportunities for personalised and adaptive interventions that can harness the persuasive power of humour to motivate physical activity.
Language
English
Publication
Antwerp : University of Antwerp, Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Communication Studies , 2023
Volume/pages
VIII, 244 p.
Note
Supervisor: Poels, Karolien [Supervisor]
Supervisor: Vandebosch, Heidi [Supervisor]
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Project info
Just in time! Using personal and contextual data to stimulate healthy behavior through adaptive interventions: Theoretical framework, technological building blocks and empirical evidence.
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Record
Identifier
Creation 28.09.2023
Last edited 30.09.2023
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