Effects of behavior modification program applying the Self-determination Theory on smoking cessation of village health volunteers (VHV)

Abstract

         Village health volunteers have to be a role model inhealth for people in community, however some village health volunteers were still addicted to smoking. This study aimed to examine the effects of behavior modification program applying self-determination theory on smoking cessation of village health volunteers.  This study has included 44 participants (VHVs) selected by purposive sampling. Twenty-two VHVs were assigned to the experimental group and control group by matching. The experimental group received program including reflexology activities, mental health empowerment activities, deep breathing activity, and social activities for five days. The participants were then followed-up at one, three and six months. The control group received activities after the program completion. Effects of the program were assessed usingquestionnaires measuring the severity of nicotine dependence, exhaled carbon monoxide and the perceived self-efficacy to quit smoking.  The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-test and Z-test.

            The study showed that: 1) there were significant differences between the perceived self-efficacy to quit smoking, the level of nicotine dependence, exhaled carbon monoxide at pre- post intervention within the experimental group (p < 0.01, 0.01, and 0.01, respectively); 2) there were significant differences between the perceived self-efficacy to quit smoking, the level of nicotine dependence, exhaled carbon monoxide  of the experimental and control groups (p < 0.01, 0. 01, and 0.01, respectively); and 3) the proportion of successful quiting  of the experimental group was significantly higher when compared to the control group (p < 0. 01). Community nurses could apply the program to smokers in other communities.