Implementation of a self-determination based clinical program to reduce cardiovascular disease risk. (November 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mayo, Nicole L; Russell, Holly A; Holt, Kathleen; Williams, Geoffrey C
• Is Part Of: Journal of health psychology. Volume 27:Number 13(2022)
• Page Start: 2898
• Page End: 2908
• Publication Date: 2022-11
• Subjects: effectiveness -- health behavior -- health promotion -- lifestyle -- public health psychology -- risk reduction; Clinical health psychology -- Periodicals; 613.019
• DOI: 10.1177/13591053211068124
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1359-1053

Abstract

Health behaviors are the cornerstone of cardiovascular risk reduction but change is challenging and maintenance is uncommon. The use of Self-Determination Theory (SDT) can promote long-term change however the pathway is uncertain related to cardiovascular risk reduction. A multi-disciplinary clinical team trained in SDT counseled 294 individuals with high cardiovascular risk. Our participants had a significant decrease in cholesterol as well as a significant increase healthy diet and motivation measures. Autonomous motivation was a critical element in the pathways. We demonstrated that a SDT team-based clinical intervention can promote cardiovascular risk reduction through autonomous motivation.