A systematic literature review of persuasive architectural interventions for stimulating health behaviour
ISSN: 0263-2772
Article publication date: 8 May 2019
Issue publication date: 12 July 2019
Abstract
Purpose
This systematic literature review focusses on original research that examines the effect of persuasive architectural interventions on stimulating health behaviour. This paper gives an overview of the empirical evidence and aims to examine the evidence for health behaviour change through architectural interventions and the underlying theoretical pathways and mechanisms using social cognitive theory.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper reviewed 40 peer-reviewed articles found through Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed and a supplementary hand search and examined for effect, type of interventions, type of behaviour and underlying mechanisms using social cognitive theory.
Findings
This review shows that architectural interventions can stimulate healthy behaviour. However, much of the research focusses on specific health behaviours (physical activity), in specific target groups (children or older adults) and with specific types of interventions (supplying provisions). Furthermore, the effect of the physical environment on cognitive factors should be taken into consideration.
Research limitations/implications
Hardly any research on smart architectural interventions for health behaviour change exists, but combining insights from product design and built environment has the potential to impact designing for health behaviour change.
Originality/value
Stimulating certain types of health behaviour can positively contribute to health goals and has been the focus of many health promotion practitioners over the years. The focus of health promotion interventions has primarily been on social and psychological factors. However, current research shows the importance of the physical environment as an influence on health behaviour. Potentially, with the use of smart technology, this effect could be enhanced.
Keywords
Citation
Hammink, C., Moor, N. and Mohammadi, M. (2019), "A systematic literature review of persuasive architectural interventions for stimulating health behaviour", Facilities, Vol. 37 No. 11/12, pp. 743-761. https://doi.org/10.1108/F-07-2017-0065
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2019, Emerald Publishing Limited