Discussion Series Episode 3: Learning the Fundamentals of Behavior Modification
In the heart of the Urban Future Global Conference, three experts gathered on a sofa for a thought-provoking discussion on how to effectively facilitate change in human behavior. Mathis Hampel, the programme director of the conference, was joined by Jeni Cross, Director of Research at the Institute for the Built Environment, Colorado State University, and Margaret Heffernan, an Entrepreneur and Writer.
Cross, who heads a website dedicated to driving change around the world, began by emphasizing the importance of focusing on people wanting to change. She suggested that making people change is difficult, and forcing change is often ineffective. Instead, she advocated for using motivational interviewing techniques and positive psychology principles. Integrating models like the transtheoretical model of behavior change and self-determination theory, Cross highlighted the significance of supporting autonomy through self-directed goal setting, competence building, and partnering with individuals to evoke change aligned with their stage of readiness.
Heffernan, an accomplished author, echoed Cross's sentiments, stressing the importance of empathy and understanding in fostering behavior change. She expressed her belief that successful behavior change requires a focus on creating a positive and supportive environment. Heffernan also added that understanding the reasons behind people's desire to change can help in creating effective strategies for behavior change. To this end, she emphasized strategies involving reflection-first prompts and encouraging immediate actions through brief, one-minute interventions delivered digitally.
Hampel, the programme director, focused on mindfulness-based self-regulation skill building and experiential learning to strengthen self-regulation, executive function, and emotional resilience. He suggested techniques such as awareness, breathing, meditation, and emotion regulation drills designed to enhance resilience and promote lasting behavioral changes.
Together, these experts recommend a blend of brief, clear, and actionable prompts or coaching interactions that respect the individual's pace and stage of readiness. Encouragement of self-reflection and intrinsic motivation through open dialogue and personal goal setting, mindfulness and self-regulation practices to support emotional and cognitive control, and leveraging technology for timely delivery of interventions that fit seamlessly into daily routines.
This synthesis shows an integrated approach combining behavioral science frameworks with practical, easy-to-engage strategies to help people adopt and sustain healthier behaviors. The discussion serves as a reminder that by understanding and respecting individuals' motivations, we can create supportive environments that foster positive change.
