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6 - Changing Behavior Using the Model of Action Phases

from Part I - Theory and Behavior Change

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  04 July 2020

By
Lucas Keller ,
Peter M. Gollwitzer  and
Paschal Sheeran
Edited by
Martin S. Hagger ,
Linda D. Cameron ,
Kyra Hamilton ,
Nelli Hankonen  and
Taru Lintunen
Martin S. Hagger
Affiliation:
University of California, Merced
Linda D. Cameron
Affiliation:
University of California, Merced
Kyra Hamilton
Affiliation:
Griffith University
Nelli Hankonen
Affiliation:
University of Helsinki
Taru Lintunen
Affiliation:
University of Jyväskylä
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Summary

The model of action phases makes a distinction between motivational (goal setting) and volitional (goal implementation) phases of goal pursuit. The model implies that changing the behavior of individuals who are in a pre-decisional action phase (i.e., have not crossed the “Rubicon” yet with respect to turning their many wishes into binding goals) needs a different approach than changing the behavior of people who are in a post-decisional phase (i.e., have crossed the Rubicon and need to implement their goals). The model is, therefore, also known as the “Rubicon” model. What exactly needs to be targeted to achieve behavior change in pre-decisional versus post-decisional individuals is addressed in the mindset theory of action phases, which explicates the Rubicon model in terms of the relevant psychological processes. It is argued that solving the tasks people face while still being pre-decisional requires different modes of thought (i.e., mindsets conceived of as a distinct assembly of activated cognitive procedures) than solving the tasks people face in post-decisional phases. These distinct features of pre-decisional (deliberative) versus post-decisional (implemental) mindsets as specified in the model need to be considered when trying to instigate behavior change. Furthermore, research on the implemental mindset has led to the discovery of a powerful self-regulation strategy promoting goal striving: the formation of implementation intentions. The chapter also outlines psychological mechanisms that underpin the facilitating effects of implementation intentions on behavior change and, when forming implementation intentions, are expected to help people to reach their goals.

Keywords

motivational action phasevolitional action phase"rubicon" modelgoal settinggoal implementationimplementation intentionsdeliberative mindsetimplemental mindsetgoal striving
Type
Chapter
Information
The Handbook of Behavior Change , pp. 77 - 88
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2020

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References

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