Using the Behaviour Change Wheel to develop an oral hygiene self-care intervention for Punjabi immigrant adults: an illustrative example.

Background: This article describes the development of an oral hygiene self-care behaviour change intervention (Safeguard Your Smile [SYS]) for Punjabi immigrant adults, using the Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW) theoretical framework.

Methods: The 3 stages and 8 steps of the BCW were followed to develop the face-to-face SYS intervention. Identification of the problem in behavioural terms was enabled by referring to the results of a qualitative focus group (FG) previously conducted by the research team. Following the BCW method, the sources of behaviour were defined in terms of capability, opportunity, and motivation. Appropriate intervention functions, policy categories, behaviour change techniques (BCTs), and modes of delivery were then identified, selected, and mapped. Concrete strategies were chosen to bring about the desired oral hygiene self-care behavioural change.

Results: Two main barriers to oral hygiene self-care faced by Punjabi immigrant adults were identified from the original FG: 1) inadequate knowledge and 2) inconsistent daily routine. Oral hygiene self-care behaviour was designated as a target behaviour, detailing frequency, duration, and technique. Five intervention functions (education, training, modelling, environmental restructuring, and enablement) and 2 policy categories (communication and service provision) were identified to influence the capability, opportunity, and motivation related to oral hygiene self-care behaviour. Nine BCTs were selected to influence desired oral hygiene self-care behaviour among adults.

Conclusion: The development process for this SYS intervention may be employed by researchers to design a behaviour change intervention for other populations. However, additional strategies tailored to each specific context and population must be incorporated.