A control system model of capability-opportunity-motivation and behaviour (COM-B) framework for sedentary and physical activity behaviours

Abstract

Objective: Theoretical frameworks are essential for understanding behaviour change, yet their current use is inadequate to capture the complexity of human behaviour such as physical activity. Real-time and big data analytics can assist in the development of more testable and dynamic models of current theories. To transform current behavioural theories into more dynamic models, it is recommended that researchers adopt principles such as control systems engineering. In this article, we aim to describe a control system model of capability-opportunity-motivation and behaviour (COM-B) framework for reducing sedentary behaviour (SB) and increasing physical activity (PA) in adults.

Methods: The COM-B model is explained in terms of control systems. Examples of effective behaviour change techniques (BCTs) (e.g. goal setting, problem-solving and social support) for reducing SB and increasing PA were mapped to the COM-B model for illustration.

Result: A fluid analogy of the COM-B system is presented.

Conclusions: The proposed integrated model will enable empirical testing of individual behaviour change components (i.e. BCTs) and contribute to the optimisation of digital behaviour change interventions.

Keywords: Digital behaviour change; control systems; physical activity; sedentary behaviour; theory.

Figure 1.

A fluid analogy for the COM-B model. Presenting selected BCTs for reducing SB and increasing PA and their associated TDF domain.