Choosing coaching frameworks for promoting diet modifications

Abstract

Theoretical frameworks have successfully guided researchers in implementing coaching interventions to effect dietary changes in adults for both prevention and management of chronic diseases. Three such frameworks include the Transtheoretical Model (TTM), Social Cognitive Theory (SCT), and the Theory of Integrative Nurse Coaching (TINC). This article introduces each theory, followed by an overview of the coaching interventions used to effect dietary behaviour changes within each theory. A condensed version of Turner's synthesis methodology is used to determine if a conceptual connection exists among the three models/theories. The condensed version includes synthesis preparation, synthesis (comparison of converging and diverging components), synthesis refinement (conceptual connection), and a concluding discussion of all three theories related to nursing practice. This synthesis will inform the focus of interventions that aim to promote dietary changes in adults at risk of developing sarcopenia.

Keywords: Behaviour change; Coaching; Dietary modification; Lifestyle change; Theoretical frameworks.