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Professor Charles Abraham

Professor of Psychology Applied to Health

5925

725925

College House 2:06

College House, University of Exeter, St Luke's Campus, Heavitree Road, Exeter, EX1 2LU, UK

Overview

Charles Abraham is a behavioural scientist and practising, health psychologist (registered by the UK Health Professionals Council). In addition to research and teaching, he provides training, consultancy and policy advice. Charles is a visiting professor at the universities of Sussex, Nottingham and Maastricht and a Research Associate at the Center for Health, Intervention, and Prevention (CHIP) at the University of Connecticut. He was the founding chair of the British Psychological Society, Division of Health Psychology and has worked as a research consultant to the Department of Health in the UK. He was a member of the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) group which developed the 2007 guidelines on Behaviour Change practice and is a member of the group that will extend this guidance in 2013. He was Special Advisor to the House of Lords Select Committee on Science and Technology during their 2010/11 inquiry into the role of behaviour change in government policy development and implementation. He also co-chairs the Athena Swan (AS) working group in the University of Exeter Medical School and serves on the university AS committee.

Broad research specialisms

Charles Abraham’s research focuses on the design, evaluation and implementation of evidence-based behaviour change interventions. His research at the University of Exeter contributes mainly to the research theme of “translational medicine, personalised healthcare and public health” but also to the “climate change and sustainable futures” theme. He has a strong interest in developing evidence-based behaviour change interventions that have the potential to generate population-level changes

Qualifications

Academic Qualifications

B.A. Social Psychology, First Class Honours, University of Sussex, 1978
D.Phil. Social Psychology, University of Sussex, 1982

Professional Qualifications

Health Professionals Council Certified Health Psychologist 2009
Qualified Supervisor of Stage 2 Health Psychology candidates 2003
Chartered Health Psychologist with current Practising Certificate 1998
Chartered Psychologist (C.Psychol). 1998
BPS Statement of Competence in Occupational Testing 1993

Research group links

Research

Research interests

Charles Abraham’s research focuses on:.

modelling modifiable processes that regulate behaviour patterns,
developing evidence-based behaviour change interventions that apply specified change techniques to (i) disrupt existing behaviour patterns and (ii) establish new ones,
conducting evaluations (including process evaluations) of such interventions,
developing materials and plans to allow sustainable implementation of such interventions.

He has conducted research on (i) preventive behaviour patterns (e.g., condom use, exercise, diet, alcohol use and smoking - mainly among young people), (ii) blood and kidney donation (iii) patient help-seeking (e.g., asthma symptom reporting and uptake of screening), (iv) patient assessment (e.g. pain measurement), (v) patient adherence (e.g., to malaria prophylaxis and anti-retrovirals), (vi) management of chronic illness (e.g., diabetes and heart failure) and (vii) staff-client interaction (e.g., care of persons with learning disabilities).

He employ a range of research methods including experiments (including random controlled trials), multivariate modelling of longitudinal survey data, systematic reviews (including meta analyses), behavioural observation, traditional content analysis and qualitative analysis of interview and group data (including thematic analysis and grounded theory).

Research projects

Charles Abraham is currently working on the following projects.

Rehabilitation Enablement in Chronic Heart Failure (REACH HF) NIHR Programme Grant.
A cluster randomsied controlled trial, process and economic evaluation to determine the effectiveness of a novel programme to prevent obesity in school children NIHR funded research.
Sexual health promotion delivered by digital media: a scoping study. NIHR funded research in collaboration with University College London.
Evaluating a psychological intervention to reduce sexual risk behaviour among gay men who have been prescribed post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV following sexual exposure. NIHR funded research in collaboration with Brighton and Sussex Medical School.
Identifying change techniques associated with effective HIV risk reduction. NIH (US) funded research in collaboration with University of Connecticut.
Can Self-affirmation Enhance Health Promotion? ESRC funded research in collaboration with the University of Sussex.
PREPARE study: Developing and evaluating HIV risk reduction interventions among adolescents in South Africa. EU funded research in collaboration with University of Bergen.
Understanding motivations, experiences and outcomes among unspecified (or “altruistic”) living kidney donors. Royal, Devon and Exeter Hospital Funded project.
Developing interventions to reduce alcohol consumption among young people. ARUK funded research in collaboration with University of Sussex.
A preliminary evaluation of the effectiveness of adding sail training to a drug and alcohol rehabilitation programme. Funded by the Tectona Trust Ltd.
User-led development and piloting of pre-clinic internet applications enabling young people with diabetes to set the focus for their diabetes consultations. Diabetes UK funded.

Publications

Key publications | Publications by category | Publications by year

Key publications

van Dongen A, Abraham C, Ruiter RAC, Veldhuizen IJT (2012). Does Questionnaire Distribution Promote Blood Donation? an Investigation of Question-Behavior Effects. Annals of Behavioral Medicine, 1-10.

Richardson M, Abraham C, Bond R (2012). Psychological Correlates of University Students' Academic Performance: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. PSYCHOLOGICAL BULLETIN, 138(2), 353-387. Author URL. Full text.

Lemmens KPH, Ruiter RAC, Abraham C, Veldhuizen IJT, Schaalma HP (2010). Motivating blood donors to recruit new donors: Experimental evaluation of an evidence-based behavior change intervention. Health Psychology, 29(6), 601-609. Abstract.

De Bruin M, Viechtbauer W, Schaalma HP, Kok G, Abraham C, Hospers HJ (2010). Standard care impact on effects of highly active antiretroviral therapy adherence interventions: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Archives of Internal Medicine, 170(3), 240-250. Abstract.

Richardson M, Abraham C (2009). Conscientiousness and achievement motivation predict performance. European Journal of Personality, 23(7), 589-605. Abstract.

Michie S, Abraham C, Whittington C, McAteer J, Gupta S (2009). Effective Techniques in Healthy Eating and Physical Activity Interventions: a Meta-Regression. Health Psychology, 28(6), 690-701. Abstract. Full text.

Publications by category

Books

Abraham C, Conner M, Jones F, O'Connor D (2016). Health psychology: Second edition. Abstract.

Michie S, Abraham C (2009). Health Psychology in Practice. Abstract.

Journal articles

Hillier-Brown FC, Summerbell CD, Moore HJ, Wrieden WL, Adams J, Abraham C, Adamson A, Araújo-Soares V, White M, Lake AA, et al (In Press). A description of interventions promoting healthier ready-to-eat meals (to eat in, to take away, or to be delivered) sold by specific food outlets in England: a systematic mapping and evidence synthesis. BMC Public Health, 17(1).

BACKGROUND: Ready-to-eat meals (to eat in, to take away or to be delivered) sold by food outlets are often more energy dense and nutrient poor compared with meals prepared at home, making them a reasonable target for public health intervention. The aim of the research presented in this paper was to systematically identify and describe interventions to promote healthier ready-to-eat meals (to eat in, to take away, or to be delivered) sold by specific food outlets in England. METHODS: a systematic search and sift of the literature, followed by evidence mapping of relevant interventions, was conducted. Food outlets were included if they were located in England, were openly accessible to the public and, as their main business, sold ready-to-eat meals. Academic databases and grey literature were searched. Also, local authorities in England, topic experts, and key health professionals and workers were contacted. Two tiers of evidence synthesis took place: type, content and delivery of each intervention were summarised (Tier 1) and for those interventions that had been evaluated, a narrative synthesis was conducted (Tier 2). RESULTS: a total of 75 interventions were identified, the most popular being awards. Businesses were more likely to engage with cost neutral interventions which offered imperceptible changes to price, palatability and portion size. Few interventions involved working upstream with suppliers of food, the generation of customer demand, the exploration of competition effects, and/or reducing portion sizes. Evaluations of interventions were generally limited in scope and of low methodological quality, and many were simple assessments of acceptability. CONCLUSIONS: Many interventions promoting healthier ready-to-eat meals (to eat in, to take away, or to be delivered) sold by specific food outlets in England are taking place; award-type interventions are the most common. Proprietors of food outlets in England that, as their main business, sell ready-to-eat meals, can be engaged in implementing interventions to promote healthier ready-to-eat-food. These proprietors are generally positive about such interventions, particularly when they are cost neutral and use a health by stealth approach.

Abstract. Author URL.

Long L, Abraham C, Paquette R, Shahmanesh M, Llewellyn C, Townsend A, Gilson R (In Press). Brief interventions to prevent sexually transmitted infections suitable for in-service use: a systematic review. Prev Med, 91, 364-382. Abstract. Author URL.

Abraham C (In Press). Charting variability to ensure conceptual and design precision: a comment on Ogden (2016). Health Psychol Rev, 10(3), 260-264. Author URL. Full text.

Price LRS, Wyatt K, Lloyd J, Dean S, Creanor S, Abraham C, Hillsdon M (In Press). Children’s compliance with wrist worn accelerometry within a cluster randomised controlled trial: Findings from the Healthy Lifestyles Programme (HeLP). Pediatric Exercise Science Full text.

Chng S, White M, Abraham C, Skippon S (In Press). Commuting and wellbeing in London: the roles of commute mode and local public transport connectivity. Prev Med, 88, 182-188. Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Long L, Abraham C, Paquette R, Shahmanesh M, Llewellyn C, Townsend A, Gilson R (In Press). Erratum to "Brief interventions to prevent sexually transmitted infections suitable for in-service use: a systematic review" [Prev. Med. 91 (2016) 364-382]. Prev Med, 96, 163-164. Author URL.

Elliott LR, White MP, Taylor AH, Abraham (In Press). How do brochures encourage walking in natural environments in the UK? a content analysis. Health Promotion International Abstract. Full text.

Denford S, Lakshman R, Callaghan M, Abraham C (In Press). Improving public health evaluation: a qualitative investigation of practitioners' needs. BMC Public Health, 18(1).

BACKGROUND: in 2011, the House of Lords published a report on Behaviour Change, in which they report that "a lot more could, and should, be done to improve the evaluation of interventions." This study aimed to undertake a needs assessment of what kind of evaluation training and materials would be of most use to UK public health practitioners by conducting interviews with practitioners about everyday evaluation practice and needed guidance and materials. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 32 public health practitioners in two UK regions, Cambridgeshire and the South West. Participants included directors of public health, consultants in public health, health improvement advisors, public health intelligence, and public health research officers. A topic guide included questions designed to explore participants existing evaluation practice and their needs for further training and guidance. Data were analysed using thematic analyses. RESULTS: Practitioners highlighted the need for evaluation to defend the effectiveness of existing programs and protect funding provisions. However, practitioners often lacked training in evaluation, and felt unqualified to perform such a task. The majority of practitioners did not use, or were not aware of many existing evaluation guidance documents. They wanted quality-assured, practical guidance that relate to the real world settings in which they operate. Practitioners also mentioned the need for better links and support from academics in public health. CONCLUSION: Whilst numerous guidance documents supporting public health evaluation exist, these documents are currently underused by practitioners - either because they are not considered useful, or because practitioners are not aware of them. Integrating existing guides into a catalogue of guidance documents, and developing a new-quality assured, practical and useful document may support the evaluation of public health programs. This in turn has the potential to identify those programs that are effective; thus improving public health and reducing financial waste.

Abstract. Author URL.

Lloyd J, Dean S, Creanor S, Abraham C, Hillsdon M, Ryan E, Wyatt KM (In Press). Intervention fidelity in the definitive cluster randomised controlled trial of the Healthy Lifestyles Programme (HeLP) trial: findings from the process evaluation. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act, 14(1).

BACKGROUND: the Healthy Lifestyles Programme (HeLP) was a novel school-located intervention for 9-10 year olds, designed to prevent obesity by changing patterns of child behaviour through the creation of supportive school and home environments using dynamic and creative delivery methods. This paper reports on both the quantitative and qualitative data regarding the implementation of the HeLP intervention in the definitive cluster randomised controlled trial, which was part of the wider process evaluation. METHODS: Mixed methods were used to collect data on intervention uptake, fidelity of delivery in terms of content and quality of delivery of the intervention, as well as school and child engagement with the programme. Data were collected using registers of attendance, observations and checklists, field notes, focus groups with children and semi-structured interviews with teachers. Qualitative data were analysed thematically and quantitative data were summarized using descriptive statistics. RESULTS: all 16 intervention schools received a complete or near complete programme (94-100%), which was delivered in the spirit in which it had been designed. of the 676 children in the intervention schools, over 90% of children participated in each phase of HeLP; 92% of children across the socio-economic spectrum were deemed to be engaged with HeLP and qualitative data revealed a high level of enjoyment by all children, particularly to the interactive drama workshops. Further evidence of child engagment with the programme was demonstrated by children's clear understanding of programme messages around marketing, moderation and food labelling. Thirteen of the intervention schools were deemed to be fully engaged with HeLP and qualitative data revealed a high level of teacher 'buy in', due to the programme's compatability with the National Curriculum, level of teacher support and use of innovative and creative delivery methods by external drama practitioners. CONCLUSION: Our trial shows that it is possible to successfully scale up complex school-based interventions, engage schools and children across the socio-economic spectrum and deliver an intervention as designed. As programme integrity was maintained throughout the HeLP trial, across all intervention schools, we can be confident that the trial findings are a true reflection of the effectiveness of the intervention, enabling policy recommendations to be made. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ISRCTN15811706.

Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Armstrong M, Morris C, Abraham C, Tarrant M (In Press). Interventions utilising contact with people with disabilities to improve children's attitudes towards disability: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Disabil Health J, 10(1), 11-22. Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Bardus M, Smith JR, Samaha L, Abraham C (In Press). Mobile and Web 2.0 interventions for weight management: an overview of review evidence and its methodological quality. Eur J Public Health, 26(4), 602-610. Abstract. Author URL.

Warmoth K, Tarrant M, Abraham C, Lang IA (In Press). Older adults' perceptions of ageing and their health and functioning: a systematic review of observational studies. Psychol Health Med, 21(5), 531-550. Abstract. Author URL.

White R, Abraham C, Smith J, White MP, Staiger PK (In Press). Recovery under sail: Rehabilitation clients’ experience of a sail training voyage. Addiction Research and Theory, In press Full text.

Eyre V, Lang C, Smith S, Jolly C, Wingham J, Abraham C, Green C, Warren F, Britten N, Greaves C, et al (In Press). Rehabilitation Enablement in Chronic Heart Failure-a facilitated self-care rehabilitation intervention in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (REACH-HFpEF) and their caregivers: Rationale and protocol for a single centre pilot randomised controlled trial (Protocol). BMJ Open Full text.

Warmoth KM, Tarrant M, Abraham, Lang (In Press). Relationship between perceptions of ageing and frailty in English older adults. Psychology, Health and Medicine, 23(4), 465-474. Full text.

Wood CE, Hardeman W, Johnston M, Francis J, Abraham C, Michie S (In Press). Reporting behaviour change interventions: do the behaviour change technique taxonomy v1, and training in its use, improve the quality of intervention descriptions?. Implement Sci, 11(1). Abstract. Author URL.

Sani AS, Abraham C, Denford S, Ball S (In Press). School-based sexual health education interventions to prevent STI/HIV in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Public Health, 16(1).

BACKGROUND: School-based sexual health education has the potential to provide an inclusive and comprehensive approach to promoting sexual health among young people. We reviewed evaluations of school-based sexual health education interventions in sub-Saharan Africa to assess effectiveness in reducing sexually transmitted infections and promoting condom use. METHODS: We searched ten electronic databases, hand-searched key journals, and reference lists of included articles for potential studies. Data were extracted on outcomes, intervention characteristics, methods and study characteristics indicative of methodological quality. Where possible, data were synthesized using random effect meta-analysis. Intervention features found predominantly in effective interventions were noted. RESULTS: the initial search retrieved 21634 potentially relevant citations. of these, 51 papers reporting on 31 interventions were included. No evaluation reported statistically significant effects on the incidence or prevalence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Herpes Simplex Virus 2 infections. However, intervention participants reported statistically significant greater condom use in both randomised controlled trials and non-randomised trials for short (less than 6 months) follow-up periods (OR = 1.62, 95 % CI = 1.03-2.55 and OR = 2.88, 95 % CI = 1.41-5.90 respectively). For intermediate (6-10 months) and long-term (more than 10 months) follow-up periods, the effect was statistically significant (OR = 1.40, 95 % CI = 1.16-1.68) and marginally significant (OR = 1.22, 95 % CI = 0.99-1.50) among the randomised trials respectively. Only 12 of the 31 interventions reported implementation details, out of which seven reported on fidelity. CONCLUSION: School-based sexual health education has the potential to promote condom use among young people in sub-Saharan Africa. However, further work is needed to develop and evaluate interventions that have measurable effects on sexually transmitted infections.

Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

van Beurden S, Greaves CJ, Smith J, Abraham S (In Press). Techniques for Modifying Impulsive Processes Associated with Unhealthy Eating: a Systematic Review. Health Psychology, In Press Abstract. Full text.

Hillier-Brown FC, Summerbell CD, Moore HJ, Routen A, Lake AA, Adams J, White M, Araujo-Soares V, Abraham C, Adamson AJ, et al (In Press). The impact of interventions to promote healthier ready-to-eat meals (to eat in, to take away or to be delivered) sold by specific food outlets open to the general public: a systematic review. Obes Rev, 18(2), 227-246. Abstract. Author URL.

Pound P, Denford S, Shucksmith J, Tanton C, Johnson AM, Owen J, Hutten R, Mohan L, Bonell C, Abraham C, et al (In Press). What is best practice in sex and relationship education? a synthesis of evidence, including stakeholders' views. BMJ Open, 7(5).

OBJECTIVES: Sex and relationship education (SRE) is regarded as vital to improving young people's sexual health, but a third of schools in England lacks good SRE and government guidance is outdated. We aimed to identify what makes SRE programmes effective, acceptable, sustainable and capable of faithful implementation. DESIGN: This is a synthesis of findings from five research packages that we conducted (practitioner interviews, case study investigation, National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles, review of reviews and qualitative synthesis). We also gained feedback on our research from stakeholder consultations. SETTINGS: Primary research and stakeholder consultations were conducted in the UK. Secondary research draws on studies worldwide. RESULTS: Our findings indicate that school-based SRE and school-linked sexual health services can be effective at improving sexual health. We found professional consensus that good programmes start in primary school. Professionals and young people agreed that good programmes are age-appropriate, interactive and take place in a safe environment. Some young women reported preferring single-sex classes, but young men appeared to want mixed classes. Young people and professionals agreed that SRE should take a 'life skills' approach and not focus on abstinence. Young people advocated a 'sex-positive' approach but reported this was lacking. Young people and professionals agreed that SRE should discuss risks, but young people indicated that approaches to risk need revising. Professionals felt teachers should be involved in SRE delivery, but many young people reported disliking having their teachers deliver SRE and we found that key messages could become lost when interpreted by teachers. The divergence between young people and professionals was echoed by stakeholders. We developed criteria for best practice based on the evidence. CONCLUSIONS: We identified key features of effective and acceptable SRE. Our best practice criteria can be used to evaluate existing programmes, contribute to the development of new programmes and inform consultations around statutory SRE.

Abstract. Author URL.

Smith JR, Louis WR, Abraham C (In Press). When and how does normative feedback reduce intentions to drink irresponsibly?. An experimental investigation. Addiction Research and Theory Full text.

Sani AS, Abraham C, Denford S, Mathews C (2018). Design, implementation and evaluation of school-based sexual health education in sub-Saharan Africa: a qualitative study of researchers’ perspectives. Sex Education, 18(2), 172-190. Abstract.

Lloyd J, Creanor S, Logan S, Green C, Dean SG, Hillsdon M, Abraham C, Tomlinson R, Pearson V, Taylor RS, et al (2018). Effectiveness of the Healthy Lifestyles Programme (HeLP) to prevent obesity in UK primary-school children: a cluster randomised controlled trial. The Lancet Child and Adolescent Health, 2(1), 35-45. Abstract. Full text.

Borek AJ, Abraham C, Greaves CJ, Tarrant M (2018). Group-Based Diet and Physical Activity Weight-Loss Interventions: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials. Appl Psychol Health Well Being, 10(1), 62-86. Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Borek AJ, Abraham C (2018). How do Small Groups Promote Behaviour Change? an Integrative Conceptual Review of Explanatory Mechanisms. Appl Psychol Health Well Being, 10(1), 30-61. Abstract. Author URL.

van Beurden SB, Simmons SI, Tang JCH, Mewse AJ, Abraham C, Greaves CJ (2018). Informing the development of online weight management interventions: a qualitative investigation of primary care patient perceptions. BMC Obes, 5 Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Chng S, Abraham C, White MP, Hoffmann C, Skippon S (2018). Psychological theories of car use: an integrative review and conceptual framework. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 55, 23-33. Abstract. Full text.

Goffe L, Penn L, Adams J, Araujo-Soares V, Summerbell CD, Abraham C, White M, Adamson A, Lake AA (2018). The challenges of interventions to promote healthier food in independent takeaways in England: qualitative study of intervention deliverers' views. BMC PUBLIC HEALTH, 18 Author URL.

Denford S, Abraham C, Callaghan M, Aighton P, De Vocht F, Arris S (2017). A review of Grey and academic literature of evaluation guidance relevant to public health interventions. BMC Health Serv Res, 17(1).

BACKGROUND: Public Health evaluation is essential to understanding what does and does not work, and robust demonstration of effectiveness may be crucial to securing future funding. Despite this, programs are often implemented with poor, incomplete or no evaluation. Public health practitioners are frequently required to provide evidence for the effectiveness of their services; thus, there is a growing need for evaluation guidance on how to evaluate public health programs. The aim of this study is to identify accessible high-quality, evaluation guidance, available to researchers and practitioners and to catalogue, summarise and categorise the content of a subset of accessible, quality guides to evaluation. METHODS: We systematically reviewed grey and academic literature for documents providing support for evaluation of complex health interventions. Searches were conducted January to March 2015, and included academic databases, internet search engines, and consultations with academic and practicing public health experts. Data were extracted by two authors and sent to the authors of the guidance documents for comments. RESULTS: Our initial search identified 402 unique documents that were screened to identify those that were (1) developed by or for a national or international organization (2) freely available to all (3) published during or after 2000 (4) specific to public health. This yielded 98 documents from 43 organisations. of these, 48 were reviewed in detail. This generated a detailed catalogue of quality evaluation guidance. The content included in documents covers 37 facets of evaluation. CONCLUSIONS: a wide range of guidance on evaluation of public health initiatives is available. Time and knowledge constraints may mean that busy practitioners find it challenging to access the most, up-to-date, relevant and useful guidance. This review presents links to and reviews of 48 quality guides to evaluation as well as categorising their content. This facilitates quick and each access to multiple selected sources of specific guidance.

Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Lloyd J, Creanor S, Price LRS, Abraham C, Dean S, Green C, Hillsdon M, Pearson V, Taylor R, Tomlinson R, et al (2017). Trial baseline characteristics of a cluster randomised controlled trial of a school-located obesity prevention programme; the Healthy Lifestyles Programme (HeLP) trial. BMC Public Health Full text.

Hoffmann C, Abraham C, White MP, Ball S, Skippon SM (2017). What cognitive mechanisms predict travel mode choice? a systematic review with meta-analysis. Transport Reviews, 37(5), 631-652. Full text.

Warmoth K, Lang IA, Phoenix C, Abraham C, Andrew MK, Hubbard RE, Tarrant M (2016). 'Thinking you're old and frail': a qualitative study of frailty in older adults. Ageing and Society, 36(7), 1483-1500. Abstract. Full text.

Denford S, Abraham C, Campbell R, Brusse H (2016). A comprehensive review of reviews of school-based interventions to improve sexual-health. Health Psychology Review Full text.

Bardus M, van Beurden SB, Smith JR, Abraham C (2016). A review and content analysis of engagement, functionality, aesthetics, information quality, and change techniques in the most popular commercial apps for weight management. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act, 13 Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Sani AS, Abraham C, Denford S, Ball S (2016). Are sexual health programmes in sub-Saharan African schools effective in promoting condom use and preventing sexually-transmitted infections including HIV? a systematic review and meta-analysis. HIV MEDICINE, 17, 30-30. Author URL.

Armstrong M, Morris C, Abraham C, Ukoumunne OC, Tarrant M (2016). Children's contact with people with disabilities and their attitudes towards disability: a cross-sectional study. Disabil Rehabil, 38(9), 879-888. Abstract. Author URL.

Conner M, Abraham C, Prestwich A, Hutter R, Hallam J, Sykes-Muskett B, Morris B, Hurling R (2016). Impact of goal priority and goal conflict on the intention–health-behavior relationship: Tests on physical activity and other health behaviors. Health Psychology, 35(9), 1017-1026. Full text.

Greaves CJ (2016). Optimising self-care support for people with heart failure and their caregivers: development of the Rehabilitation Enablement in Chronic Heart Failure (REACH-HF) intervention using intervention mapping. Pilot and Feasibility Studies, 2, 1-1. Full text.

Armstrong M, Morris C, Tarrant M, Abraham, Horton M (2016). Rasch analysis of the Chedoke–McMaster Attitudes towards Children with Handicaps scale. Disability and Rehabilitation Full text.

Tang JCH, Abraham C, Greaves CJ, Nikolaou V (2016). Self-directed interventions to promote weight loss: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Health Psychol Rev, 10(3), 358-372. Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Graber R, de Visser R, Abraham C, Memon A, Hart A, Hunt K (2016). Staying in the 'sweet spot': a resilience-based analysis of the lived experience of low-risk drinking and abstention among British youth. Psychol Health, 31(1), 79-99. Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Traina SB, Mathias SD, Colwell HH, Crosby RD, Abraham C (2016). The Diabetes Intention, Attitude, and Behavior Questionnaire: evaluation of a brief questionnaire to measure physical activity, dietary control, maintenance of a healthy weight, and psychological antecedents. PATIENT PREFERENCE AND ADHERENCE, 10, 213-222. Author URL.

Borek AJ, Abraham C, Smith JR, Greaves CJ, Tarrant M (2015). A checklist to improve reporting of group-based behaviour-change interventions Biostatistics and methods. BMC Public Health, 15(1). Abstract. Full text.

Wood CE, Richardson M, Johnston M, Abraham C, Francis J, Hardeman W, Michie S (2015). Applying the behaviour change technique (BCT) taxonomy v1: a study of coder training. Transl Behav Med, 5(2), 134-148. Abstract. Author URL.

Michie S, Wood CE, Johnston M, Abraham C, Francis JJ, Hardeman W (2015). Behaviour change techniques: the development and evaluation of a taxonomic method for reporting and describing behaviour change interventions (a suite of five studies involving consensus methods, randomised controlled trials and analysis of qualitative data). Health Technol Assess, 19(99), 1-188.

BACKGROUND: Meeting global health challenges requires effective behaviour change interventions (BCIs). This depends on advancing the science of behaviour change which, in turn, depends on accurate intervention reporting. Current reporting often lacks detail, preventing accurate replication and implementation. Recent developments have specified intervention content into behaviour change techniques (BCTs) - the 'active ingredients', for example goal-setting, self-monitoring of behaviour. BCTs are 'the smallest components compatible with retaining the postulated active ingredients, i.e. the proposed mechanisms of change. They can be used alone or in combination with other BCTs' (Michie S, Johnston M. Theories and techniques of behaviour change: developing a cumulative science of behaviour change. Health Psychol Rev 2012;6:1-6). Domain-specific taxonomies of BCTs have been developed, for example healthy eating and physical activity, smoking cessation and alcohol consumption. We need to build on these to develop an internationally shared language for specifying and developing interventions. This technology can be used for synthesising evidence, implementing effective interventions and testing theory. It has enormous potential added value for science and global health. OBJECTIVE: (1) to develop a method of specifying content of BCIs in terms of component BCTs; (2) to lay a foundation for a comprehensive methodology applicable to different types of complex interventions; (3) to develop resources to support application of the taxonomy; and (4) to achieve multidisciplinary and international acceptance for future development. DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS: Four hundred participants (systematic reviewers, researchers, practitioners, policy-makers) from 12 countries engaged in investigating, designing and/or delivering BCIs. Development of the taxonomy involved a Delphi procedure, an iterative process of revisions and consultation with 41 international experts; hierarchical structure of the list was developed using inductive 'bottom-up' and theory-driven 'top-down' open-sort procedures (n = 36); training in use of the taxonomy (1-day workshops and distance group tutorials) (n = 161) was evaluated by changes in intercoder reliability and validity (agreement with expert consensus); evaluating the taxonomy for coding interventions was assessed by reliability (intercoder; test-retest) and validity (n = 40 trained coders); and evaluating the taxonomy for writing descriptions was assessed by reliability (intercoder; test-retest) and by experimentally testing its value (n = 190). RESULTS: Ninety-three distinct, non-overlapping BCTs with clear labels and definitions formed Behaviour Change Technique Taxonomy version 1 (BCTTv1). BCTs clustered into 16 groupings using a 'bottom-up' open-sort procedure; there was overlap between these and groupings produced by a theory-driven, 'top-down' procedure. Both training methods improved validity (both p

Abstract. Author URL.

Armstrong M, Morris C, Abraham C, Ukoumunne OC, Tarrant M (2015). Children’s contact with people with disabilities and their attitudes towards disability: a cross-sectional study. Disability and Rehabilitation Full text.

Taylor RS, Hayward C, Eyre V, Austin J, Davies R, Doherty P, Jolly K, Wingham J, Van Lingen R, Abraham C, et al (2015). Clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the Rehabilitation Enablement in Chronic Heart Failure (REACH-HF) facilitated self-care rehabilitation intervention in heart failure patients and caregivers: rationale and protocol for a multicentre randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open, 5(12). Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Devine-Wright H, Abraham C, Onya H, Ramatsea S, Themane M, Aarø LE (2015). Correlates of condom use and condom-use motivation among young South Africans. Journal of Applied Social Psychology Abstract.

Bailey J, Mann S, Wayal S, Abraham C, Murray E (2015). Digital media interventions for sexual health promotion-opportunities and challenges: a great way to reach people, particularly those at increased risk of sexual ill health. BMJ, 350 Author URL.

Kurz T, Gardner B, Verplanken B, Abraham C (2015). Habitual behaviours or patterns of practice: Explaining and changing repetitive climate-relevant actions. Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews: WIREs Climate Change, 6, 113-128. Abstract. Full text.

Tang J, Abraham C, Stamp E, Greaves C (2015). How can weight-loss app designers' best engage and support users? a qualitative investigation. British Journal of Health Psychology, 20(1), 151-171. Abstract.

Tang J, Abraham C, Stamp E, Greaves C (2015). How can weight-loss app designers' best engage and support users? a qualitative investigation. Br J Health Psychol, 20(1), 151-171. Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Pearson M, Chilton R, Wyatt K, Abraham C, Ford T, Woods HB, Anderson R (2015). Implementing health promotion programmes in schools: a realist systematic review of research and experience in the United Kingdom. Implement Sci, 10

BACKGROUND: Schools have long been viewed as a good setting in which to encourage healthy lifestyles amongst children, and schools in many countries aspire to more comprehensive, integrated approaches to health promotion. Recent reviews have identified evidence of the effects of school health promotion on children's and young people's health. However, understanding of how such programmes can be implemented in schools is more limited. METHODS: We conducted a realist review to identify the conditions and actions which lead to the successful implementation of health promotion programmes in schools. We used the international literature to develop programme theories which were then tested using evaluations of school health promotion programmes conducted in the United Kingdom (UK). Iterative searching and screening was conducted to identify sources and clear criteria applied for appraisal of included sources. A review advisory group comprising educational and public health practitioners, commissioners, and academics was established at the outset. RESULTS: in consultation with the review advisory group, we developed four programme theories (preparing for implementation, initial implementation, embedding into routine practice, adaptation and evolution); these were then refined using the UK evaluations in the review. This enabled us to identify transferable mechanisms and enabling and constraining contexts and investigate how the operation of mechanisms differed in different contexts. We also identified steps that should be taken at a senior level in relation to preparing for implementation (which revolved around negotiation about programme delivery) and initial implementation (which centred on facilitation, support, and reciprocity-the latter for both programme deliverers and pupils). However, the depth and rigour of evidence concerning embedding into routine practice and adaptation and evolution was limited. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings provide guidance for the design, implementation, and evaluation of health promotion in schools and identify the areas where further research is needed.

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Abraham C (2015). Mapping modifiable mechanisms in health promotion research: a commentary on Sniehotta, Presseau, and Araújo-Soares. Health Psychology Review, 9(2), 160-164.

Bardus M, Smith JR, Samaha L, Abraham C (2015). Mobile Phone and Web 2.0 Technologies for Weight Management: a Systematic Scoping Review. J Med Internet Res, 17(11).

BACKGROUND: Widespread diffusion of mobile phone and Web 2.0 technologies make them potentially useful tools for promoting health and tackling public health issues, such as the increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity. Research in this domain is growing rapidly but, to date, no review has comprehensively and systematically documented how mobile and Web 2.0 technologies are being deployed and evaluated in relation to weight management. OBJECTIVE: to provide an up-to-date, comprehensive map of the literature discussing the use of mobile phone and Web 2.0 apps for influencing behaviors related to weight management (ie, diet, physical activity [PA], weight control, etc). METHODS: a systematic scoping review of the literature was conducted based on a published protocol (registered at PROSPERO: CRD42014010323). Using a comprehensive search strategy, we searched 16 multidisciplinary electronic databases for original research documents published in English between 2004 and 2014. We used duplicate study selection and data extraction. Using an inductively developed charting tool, selected articles were thematically categorized. RESULTS: We identified 457 articles, mostly published between 2013 and 2014 in 157 different journals and 89 conference proceedings. Articles were categorized around two overarching themes, which described the use of technologies for either (1) promoting behavior change (309/457, 67.6%) or (2) measuring behavior (103/457, 22.5%). The remaining articles were overviews of apps and social media content (33/457, 7.2%) or covered a combination of these three themes (12/457, 2.6%). Within the two main overarching themes, we categorized articles as representing three phases of research development: (1) design and development, (2) feasibility studies, and (3) evaluations. Overall, articles mostly reported on evaluations of technologies for behavior change (211/457, 46.2%). CONCLUSIONS: There is an extensive body of research on mobile phone and Web 2.0 technologies for weight management. Research has reported on (1) the development, feasibility, and efficacy of persuasive mobile technologies used in interventions for behavior change (PA and diet) and (2) the design, feasibility, and accuracy of mobile phone apps for behavioral assessment. Further research has focused exclusively on analyses of the content and quality of available apps. Limited evidence exists on the use of social media for behavior change, but a segment of studies deal with content analyses of social media. Future research should analyze mobile phone and Web 2.0 technologies together by combining the evaluation of content and design aspects with usability, feasibility, and efficacy/effectiveness for behavior change, or accuracy/validity for behavior assessment, in order to understand which technological components and features are likely to result in effective interventions.

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Wingham J, Frost J, Britten N, Jolly K, Greaves C, Abraham C, Dalal H, REACH-HF research investigators (2015). Needs of caregivers in heart failure management: a qualitative study. Chronic Illn, 11(4), 304-319. Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Good A, Harris PR, Jessop D, Abraham C (2015). Open-mindedness can decrease persuasion amongst adolescents: the role of self-affirmation. British Journal of Health Psychology, 20(2), 228-242. Abstract.

Good A, Harris PR, Jessop D, Abraham C (2015). Open-mindedness can decrease persuasion amongst adolescents: the role of self-affirmation. Br J Health Psychol, 20(2), 228-242.

OBJECTIVES: Self-affirmation (e.g. by reflecting on important personal values) has been found to promote more open-minded appraisal of threatening health messages in at-risk adults. However, it is unclear how self-affirmation affects adolescents and whether it has differential effects on the impact of these messages amongst those at relatively lower and higher risk. The current study explored moderation by risk. DESIGN: Participants were randomly assigned to either a self-affirmation or a control condition before receiving a health message concerning physical activity. METHODS: Older adolescents (N = 125) completed a self-affirmation or control writing task before reading about the health consequences of not meeting recommendations to be physically active for at least 60 min daily. Most of the sample did not achieve these levels of activity (98%, N = 123). Consequently, the message informed these participants that - unless they changed their behaviour - they would be at higher risk of heart disease. Participants completed measures of responses to the message and behaviour-specific cognitions (e.g. self-efficacy) for meeting the recommendations. RESULTS: for relatively inactive participants, self-affirmation was associated with increased persuasion. However, for those who were moderately active (but not meeting recommendations), those in the self-affirmation condition were less persuaded by the message. CONCLUSIONS: Whilst self-affirmation can increase message acceptance, there are circumstances when the open-mindedness it induces may decrease persuasion. The evidence provided in this study suggests that caution may be needed when recommendations are challenging and it could be considered reasonable to be sceptical about the need to change behaviour. Statement of contribution What is already known on this subject? Self-affirmation can facilitate open-mindedness and sensitivity to whether health messages suggest high or low risk on the basis of current behaviour. What does this study add? Demonstrates that self-affirmation effects can be moderated by the extent of failure to meet recommendations. Shows that self-affirmation can be associated with less persuasion when challenging health guidelines are used.

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Abraham C, Wood CE, Johnston M, Francis J, Hardeman W, Richardson M, Michie S (2015). Reliability of Identification of Behavior Change Techniques in Intervention Descriptions. Annals of Behavioral Medicine Abstract. Full text.

de Visser RO, Graber R, Hart A, Abraham C, Scanlon T, Watten P, Memon A (2015). Using qualitative methods within a mixed-methods approach to developing and evaluating interventions to address harmful alcohol use among young people. Health Psychol, 34(4), 349-360. Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Michie S, Johnston M, West R, Abraham C, Hardeman W, Wood C (2014). DESIGNING BEHAVIOR CHANGE INTERVENTIONS: THE BEHAVIOUR CHANGE WHEEL AND BEHAVIOR CHANGE TECHNIQUES. ANNALS OF BEHAVIORAL MEDICINE, 47, S157-S157. Author URL.

Abraham C, Johnson BT, de Bruin M, Luszczynska A (2014). Enhancing reporting of behavior change intervention evaluations. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr, 66 Suppl 3, S293-S299. Abstract. Author URL.

de Visser RO, Hart A, Abraham C, Graber R, Scanlon T, Memon A (2014). How alike are young non-drinkers, former-drinkers, low-risk drinkers, and hazardous drinkers?. Addict Behav, 39(8), 1258-1264. Abstract. Author URL.

Abraham C (2014). Mapping modifiable mechanisms in health promotion research: a commentary on Sniehotta, Presseau, and Araújo-Soares. Health Psychology Review

Rizzoli R, Abraham C, Brandi ML (2014). Nutrition and bone health: Turning knowledge and beliefs into healthy behaviour. Current Medical Research and Opinion, 30(1), 131-141. Abstract.

Forster AS, Forbes LJL, Abraham C, Warburton FG, Douglas E, Ramirez AJ (2014). Promoting early presentation of breast cancer: a preliminary evaluation of a written intervention. Chronic Illness, 10(1), 18-30. Abstract.

Aarø LE, Mathews C, Kaaya S, Katahoire AR, Onya H, Abraham C, Klepp KI, Wubs A, Eggers SM, De Vries H, et al (2014). Promoting sexual and reproductive health among adolescents in southern and eastern Africa (PREPARE): Project design and conceptual framework. BMC Public Health, 14(1).

Background: Young people in sub-Saharan Africa are affected by the HIV pandemic to a greater extent than young people elsewhere and effective HIV-preventive intervention programmes are urgently needed. The present article presents the rationale behind an EU-funded research project (PREPARE) examining effects of community-based (school delivered) interventions conducted in four sites in sub-Saharan Africa. One intervention focuses on changing beliefs and cognitions related to sexual practices (Mankweng, Limpopo, South Africa). Another promotes improved parent-offspring communication on sexuality (Kampala, Uganda). Two further interventions are more comprehensive aiming to promote healthy sexual practices. One of these (Western Cape, South Africa) also aims to reduce intimate partner violence while the other (Dar es Salaam, Tanzania) utilises school-based peer education. Methods/design. A modified Intervention Mapping approach is used to develop all programmes. Cluster randomised controlled trials of programmes delivered to school students aged 12-14 will be conducted in each study site. Schools will be randomly allocated (after matching or stratification) to intervention and delayed intervention arms. Baseline surveys at each site are followed by interventions and then by one (Kampala and Limpopo) or two (Western Cape and Dar es Salaam) post-intervention data collections. Questionnaires include questions common for all sites and are partly based on a set of social cognition models previously applied to the study of HIV-preventive behaviours. Data from all sites will be merged in order to compare prevalence and associations across sites on core variables. Power is set to.80 or higher and significance level to.05 or lower in order to detect intervention effects. Intraclass correlations will be estimated from previous surveys carried out at each site. Discussion. We expect PREPARE interventions to have an impact on hypothesized determinants of risky sexual behaviour and in Western Cape and Dar es Salaam to change sexual practices. Results from PREPARE will (i) identify modifiable cognitions and social processes related to risky sexual behaviour and (ii) identify promising intervention approaches among young adolescents in sub-Saharan cultures and contexts. Trial registrations. Controlled Trials ISRCTN56270821 (Cape Town); Controlled Trials ISRCTN10386599 (Limpopo); Clinical Trials NCT01772628 (Kampala); Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12613000900718 (Dar es Salaam). © 2014 Aarø et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.

Abstract.

Tang J, Abraham C, Greaves C, Yates T (2014). Self-directed interventions to promote weight loss: a systematic review of reviews. J Med Internet Res, 16(2).

BACKGROUND: a wide range of self-directed weight-loss interventions are available, providing users with a variety of tools delivered through various formats to regulate weight-related behavior patterns. However, it is unclear how effective self-directed interventions are and how they promote weight loss and weight maintenance. OBJECTIVE: a systematic review of reviews was conducted to examine the effectiveness of such interventions and to identify intervention content associated with effectiveness. METHODS: MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library for systematic reviews were searched from 2000-2012 for reviews of the effectiveness of self-directed interventions on weight loss and weight maintenance in adults. Two reviewers used predefined inclusion criteria to select relevant reviews and assess their quality using the Overview Quality Assessment Questionnaire (OQAQ). We extracted data on effectiveness and on relationships between intervention characteristics and effectiveness. RESULTS: Twenty reviews were included and quality assessed. Findings relevant to self-directed interventions, including interactive websites, smartphone applications, and text messaging (short message service, SMS) were summarized. Findings were mixed but promising. For example, one review of Internet-based interventions found that, when used in conjunction with standard weight loss programs, these interventions resulted in a significant average increase in weight loss of 1.5 kg over evaluation periods. Unfortunately, only 7 of 20 reviews were of high methodological quality according to OQAQ scores, and only 4 employed meta-analyses. Few reviews linked intervention content to effectiveness. CONCLUSIONS: Current evidence suggests that self-directed interventions can independently promote weight loss and can augment interventions involving personal contact. Particular change techniques and delivery modes including individualized feedback, email counseling, and online social support appear to enhance effectiveness. Further reviews of the content of self-directed weight-loss intervention studies are needed to clarify which change techniques delivered through which delivery formats optimize intervention effectiveness.

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Ashurst EJ, Jones RB, Abraham C, Jenner M, Boddy K, Besser REJ, Hammersley S, Pinkney J (2014). The Diabetes App Challenge: User-Led Development and Piloting of Internet Applications Enabling Young People with Diabetes to Set the Focus for Their Diabetes Consultations. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL INTERNET RESEARCH, 16(11). Author URL. Full text.

Macmillan M, Tarrant M, Abraham C, Morris C (2014). The association between children's contact with people with disabilities and their attitudes towards disability: a systematic review. Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology, 56(6), 529-546. Abstract.

Hillier-Brown FC, Moore HJ, Lake AA, Adamson AJ, White M, Adams J, Araujo-Soares V, Abraham C, Summerbell CD (2014). The effectiveness of interventions targeting specific out-of-home food outlets: Protocol for a systematic review. Systematic Reviews, 3(1). Abstract.

Clarke A, Mitchell A, Abraham C (2014). Understanding donation experiences of unspecified (altruistic) kidney donors. Br J Health Psychol, 19(2), 393-408.

OBJECTIVES: Kidney donation from a living donor to an unknown recipient has been legal in the UK since 2006. Yet there is little research into the experiences of unspecified kidney donors (UKDs) in interaction with the health care systems. DESIGN: This article explores the experiences of 14 UKDs recruited through four regional transplant co-ordinating centres in England. At interview, they were invited to share their donation stories and discuss the antecedents, social, and psychological processes involved. Interviews were audio-taped and transcribed. METHODS: Transcripts were analysed using a grounded theory approach employing a constant comparison methodology. Themes emerging from the data were named to form categories organized around the central focus of the research, forming an analytical story of UKDs' experiences. RESULTS: Two major categories emerged: 'connected to others' and 'uneasy negotiations with others'. 'Connected to others' encompasses the motivations and psychological and social consequences of UKD. 'Uneasy negotiations with others' refer to the concerns and conflicts that arose during the donation process. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the importance of social relationships on the process and outcomes of UKD. These UKDs report both intra- and interpersonal benefits from donation. The donation process, however, also created interpersonal stress, and conflicting messages about the acceptability of their donation were experienced in UKDs' personal lives and in their interactions with health care services. Findings are discussed with reference to the wider literature on UKD and altruism and in relation to implications for clinical practice. STATEMENT OF CONTRIBUTION: What is already known on this subject? Unspecified living kidney donation is an under-researched area with only three research papers published worldwide that report on the motivations and experiences of donors. These studies indicate that donors endorse pro-social values and receive positive interpersonal and intrapersonal benefits from donation. What does this study add? UKDs' experiences are made explicit and provide a framework for future research. Social connections (capital) are an important precursor to and outcome from donation. Assumptions of pathological motivations were encountered by donors in their personal life and within the NHS.

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Abraham C (2014). Use of multiple research methods to specify mechanisms regulating health-related behaviour patterns and identify techniques capable of changing those mechanisms. Australian Psychologist, 49(3), 139-141.

de Visser RO, Hart A, Abraham C, Memon A, Graber R, Scanlon T (2014). Which alcohol control strategies do young people think are effective?. Drug Alcohol Rev, 33(2), 144-151. Abstract. Author URL.

De Visser RO, Hart A, Abraham C, Memon A, Graber R, Scanlon T (2014). Which alcohol control strategies do young people think are effective?. Drug and Alcohol Review, 33(2), 144-151. Abstract.

de Visser RO, Wheeler Z, Abraham C, Smith JA (2013). 'Drinking is our modern way of bonding': Young people's beliefs about interventions to encourage moderate drinking. Psychology and Health, 28(12), 1460-1480. Abstract.

de Visser RO, Wheeler Z, Abraham C, Smith JA (2013). 'Drinking is our modern way of bonding': young people's beliefs about interventions to encourage moderate drinking. Psychol Health, 28(12), 1460-1480. Abstract. Author URL.

Macmillan M, Abraham C, Morris C, Tarrant M (2013). Determinants of children's attitudes towards disabled people. PSYCHOLOGY & HEALTH, 28, 257-257. Author URL.

Abraham C (2013). Developing and applying behaviour change component classification systems. PSYCHOLOGY & HEALTH, 28, 16-16. Author URL.

van Dongen A, Abraham C, Ruiter RAC, Veldhuizen IJT (2013). Does Questionnaire Distribution Promote Blood Donation? an Investigation of Question-Behavior Effects. ANNALS OF BEHAVIORAL MEDICINE, 45(2), 163-172. Author URL.

Richardson M, Abraham C (2013). Modeling antecedents of university students' study behavior and grade point average. Journal of Applied Social Psychology, 43(3), 626-637. Abstract.

Van Dongen A, Ruiter R, Abraham C, Veldhuizen I (2013). Predicting blood donation maintenance: the importance of planning future donations. Transfusion Abstract.

Jellema IJ, Abraham C, Schaalma HP, Gebhardt WA, Van Empelen P (2013). Predicting having condoms available among adolescents: the role of personal norm and enjoyment. British Journal of Health Psychology, 18(2), 453-468.

Objectives Having condoms available has been shown to be an important predictor of condom use. We examined whether or not personal norm and goal enjoyment contribute to predicting having condoms available in the context of cognition specified by the theory of planned behaviour (TPB). Design Prospective survey study, with a baseline and follow-up measurement (at 3 months). Methods Data were gathered using an online survey. In total 282 adolescents (mean age = 15.6, 74% female adolescents) completed both questionnaires. At baseline, demographics, sexual experience, condom use, TPB variables, descriptive norm, personal norm, and enjoyment towards having condoms available were measured. At T2 (3 months later) having condoms available was measured. Direct and moderating effects of personal norm and goal enjoyment were examined by means of hierarchical linear regression analyses. Results Regression analyses yielded a direct effect of self-efficacy and personal norm on condom availability. In addition, moderation of the intention-behaviour relation by goal enjoyment added to the variance explained. The final model explained approximately 35% of the variance in condom availability. Conclusions Personal norm and goal enjoyment add to the predictive utility of a TPB model of having condoms available and may be useful intervention targets. Statement of contribution What is already known about this subject? Having condoms available is an important prerequisite for actual condom use. The theory of planned behaviour has successfully been applied to explain condom availability behaviour. The theory of planned behaviour has been criticized for not adequately taking into account affective motivation. What does this study add? Personal norm and goal enjoyment add to the predictive utility of the model. Personal norm explains condom availability directly, enjoyment increases intention enactment. Personal norm and goal enjoyment therefore are useful intervention targets. © 2012 the British Psychological Society.

Abstract.

Good A, Harris P, Jessop D, Abraham C (2013). Self-affirmation promotes open-minded rejection of challenging health messages. PSYCHOLOGY & HEALTH, 28, 99-99. Author URL.

Tang J, Abraham C, Greaves C, Yates T (2013). Self-directed interventions to promote weight loss: a systematic review. PSYCHOLOGY & HEALTH, 28, 319-319. Author URL.

Poltawski L, Abraham C, Forster A, Goodwin VA, Kilbride C, Taylor RS, Dean S (2013). Synthesising practice guidelines for the development of community-based exercise programmes after stroke. Implement Sci, 8

BACKGROUND: Multiple guidelines are often available to inform practice in complex interventions. Guidance implementation may be facilitated if it is tailored to particular clinical issues and contexts. It should also aim to specify all elements of interventions that may mediate and modify effectiveness, including both their content and delivery. We conducted a focused synthesis of recommendations from stroke practice guidelines to produce a structured and comprehensive account to facilitate the development of community-based exercise programmes after stroke. METHODS: Published stroke clinical practice guidelines were searched for recommendations relevant to the content and delivery of community-based exercise interventions after stroke. These were synthesised using a framework based on target intervention outcomes, personal and programme proximal objectives, and recommended strategies. RESULTS: Nineteen guidelines were included in the synthesis (STRIDES; STroke Rehabilitation Intervention-Development Evidence Synthesis). Eight target outcomes, 14 proximal objectives, and 94 recommended strategies were identified. The synthesis was structured to present best practice recommendations in a format that could be used by intervention programme developers. It addresses both programme content and context, including personal factors, service standards and delivery issues. Some recommendations relating to content, and many relating to delivery and other contextual issues, were based on low level evidence or expert opinion. Where opinion varied, the synthesis indicates the range of best practice options suggested in guidelines. CONCLUSIONS: the synthesis may assist implementation of best practice by providing a structured intervention description that focuses on a particular clinical application, addresses practical issues involved in programme development and provision, and illustrates the range of best-practice options available to users where robust evidence is lacking. The synthesis approach could be applied to other areas of stroke rehabilitation or to other complex interventions.

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Wyatt KM, Lloyd JJ, Abraham C, Creanor S, Dean S, Densham E, Daurge W, Green C, Hillsdon M, Pearson V, et al (2013). The Healthy Lifestyles Programme (HeLP), a novel school-based intervention to prevent obesity in school children: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial. Trials, 14

BACKGROUND: over the last three decades there has been a substantial increase in the proportion of children who are overweight or obese. The Healthy Lifestyles Programme (HeLP) is a novel school-based intervention, using highly interactive and creative delivery methods to prevent obesity in children. METHODS/DESIGN: We describe a cluster randomised controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness and cost effectiveness of HeLP. The intervention has been developed using intervention mapping (involving extensive stakeholder involvement) and has been guided by the Information, Motivation, Behavioural Skills model. HeLP includes creating a receptive environment, drama activities, goal setting and reinforcement activities and runs over three school terms. Piloting showed that 9 to 10 year olds were the most receptive and participative. This study aims to recruit 1,300 children from 32 schools (over half of which will have ≥19% of pupils eligible for free school meals) from the southwest of England. Participating schools will be randomised to intervention or control groups with baseline measures taken prior to randomisation. The primary outcome is change in body mass index standard deviation score (BMI SDS) at 24 months post baseline. Secondary outcomes include, waist circumference and percent body fat SDS and proportion of children classified as overweight or obese at 18 and 24 months and objectively measured physical activity and food intake at 18 months. Between-group comparisons will be made using random effects regression analysis taking into account the hierarchical nature of the study design. An economic evaluation will estimate the incremental cost-effectiveness of HeLP, compared to control, from the perspective of the National Health Service (NHS)/third party payer. An in-depth process evaluation will provide insight into how HeLP works, and whether there is any differential uptake or engagement with the programme. DISCUSSION: the results of the trial will provide evidence on the effectiveness and cost effectiveness of the Healthy Lifestyles Programme in affecting the weight status of children. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ISRCTN15811706.

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Michie S, Richardson M, Johnston M, Abraham C, Francis J, Hardeman W, Eccles MP, Cane J, Wood CE (2013). The behavior change technique taxonomy (v1) of 93 hierarchically clustered techniques: Building an international consensus for the reporting of behavior change interventions. Annals of Behavioral Medicine, 46(1), 81-95. Abstract.

Van Dongen A, Abraham C, Ruiter RAC, Veldhuizen IJT (2013). The influence of adverse reactions, subjective distress, and anxiety on retention of first-time blood donors. Transfusion, 53(2), 337-343. Abstract.

van Dongen A, Abraham C, Ruiter RAC, Veldhuizen IJT (2013). The influence of adverse reactions, subjective distress, and anxiety on retention of first-time blood donors. Transfusion, 53(2), 337-343. Abstract. Author URL.

Gardner B, Abraham C, Lally P, de Bruijn G-J (2012). 'The Habitual Use of the Self-report Habit Index': a Reply. ANNALS OF BEHAVIORAL MEDICINE, 43(1), 141-142. Author URL.

van Dongen A, Abraham C, Ruiter RAC, Schaalma HP, de Kort WLAM, Dijkstra JA, Veldhuizen IJT (2012). Are lapsed donors willing to resume blood donation, and what determines their motivation to do so?. Transfusion, 52(6), 1296-1302. Abstract. Author URL.

Abraham C, Britten N, Dean S, Greaves C, Lloyd J, Poltawski L, Wyatt KM (2012). Creating Change that Counts: Evidence-led Co-creation as a Pathway to Impact. European Health Psychologist, 14(3), 64-69.

Abraham C (2012). Creating Change that Counts: Evidence-led Co-creation as a Pathway to Impact. PSYCHOLOGY & HEALTH, 27, 1-1. Author URL.

Crutzen R, Peters G-JY, Abraham C (2012). DATA SHARING AMONG TRIALISTS What about trialists sharing other study materials?. BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNAL, 345 Author URL.

Michie S, Johnston M, Abraham C, Francis J, Hardeman W, Eccles M (2012). Developing a true (hierarchical) taxonomy of behaviour change techniques. PSYCHOLOGY & HEALTH, 27, 91-91. Author URL.

Goodwin V, Poltawski L, Kilbride C, Abraham C, Taylor RS, Forster A, Dean SG (2012). Exercise for Stroke survivors: a synthesis of evidence-based guidelines. JOURNAL OF AGING AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, 20, S245-S245. Author URL.

Mann E, Abraham C (2012). Identifying Beliefs and Cognitions Underpinning Commuters' Travel Mode Choices. Journal of Applied Social Psychology, 42(11), 2730-2757. Abstract.

Pearson M, Chilton R, Woods HB, Wyatt K, Ford T, Abraham C, Anderson R (2012). Implementing health promotion in schools: protocol for a realist systematic review of research and experience in the United Kingdom (UK). Syst Rev, 1 Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Graham-Rowe E, Gardner B, Abraham C, Skippon S, Dittmar H, Hutchins R, Stannard J (2012). Mainstream consumers driving plug-in battery-electric and plug-in hybrid electric cars: a qualitative analysis of responses and evaluations. Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice, 46(1), 140-153. Abstract.

Tang J, Abraham C, Greaves C, Yates T (2012). Mapping behaviour change techniques to modes of delivery to enhance weight loss initiation and maintenance. PSYCHOLOGY & HEALTH, 27, 337-337. Author URL.

Llewellyn C, Abraham C, Miners A, Smith H, Pollard A, Benn P, Fisher M (2012). Multicentre RCT and economic evaluation of a psychological intervention together with a leaflet to reduce risk behaviour amongst men who have sex with men (MSM) prescribed post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV following sexual exposure (PEPSE): a protocol. BMC Infect Dis, 12

BACKGROUND: Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) following sexual exposure to HIV has been recommended as a method of preventing HIV infection in the UK. Men who have sex with men (MSM) are the group most affected by HIV in the UK and their sexual risk taking behaviour is reported to be increasing. One-to-one behavioural interventions, such as motivational interviewing (MI) have been recommended to reduce HIV in high risk groups. The Information, Motivation and Behavioral skills (IMB) model has been shown to provide a good basis for understanding and predicting HIV-relevant health behaviour and health behaviour change, however the IMB has yet to be applied to PEP after risky sexual exposure. The primary aim of this trial is to examine the impact of MI augmented with information provision and behavioural skills building (informed by the IMB Model), over and above usual care, on risky sexual behaviour in MSM prescribed PEP after potential sexual exposure. A secondary aim of this research is to examine the impact of the intervention on adherence to PEP. This study will also provide estimates of the cost-effectiveness of the intervention. METHODS: a manualised parallel group randomised controlled trial with economic evaluation will be conducted. The primary outcome is the proportion of risky sexual practices. Secondary outcomes include: i) Levels of adherence to PEP treatment; ii) Number of subsequent courses of PEP; iii) Levels of motivation to avoid risky sexual behaviours; iv) Levels of HIV risk-reduction information/knowledge; v) Levels of risk reduction behavioural skills; vi) Diagnosis of anal gonorrhoea, Chlamydia and/or HIV. 250 participants will be asked to self-complete a questionnaire at four time points during the study (at 0,3,6,12 months). The intervention will consist of a two-session, fixed duration, telephone administered augmented MI intervention based on the IMB model. A newly developed treatment manual will guide the selection of persuasive communication strategies as appropriate for each participant and will be based on underlying change mechanisms specified by the IMB theoretical framework. Information provision and skills building will also be included in the intervention package through the use of information leaflets and tailored action plans. Fidelity of intervention delivery will be assessed. DISCUSSION: the results from this NIHR funded study will identify whether it is appropriate and cost-effective to intervene using one-to-one telephone calls with MSM seeking PEP. If the intervention is effective, further work will be needed on training staff to deliver the intervention competently. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERS: UKCRN ID:11436; ISRCTN00746242.

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Luszczynska A, Abraham C (2012). Reciprocal relationships between three aspects of physical self-concept, vigorous physical activity, and lung function: a longitudinal study among late adolescents. Psychology of Sport and Exercise, 13(5), 640-648. Abstract.

Abraham C, Good A, Huedo-Medina TB, Warren MR, Johnson BT (2012). Reliability and Utility of the SHARP Taxonomy of Behaviour Change Techniques. PSYCHOLOGY & HEALTH, 27, 1-2. Author URL.

Brown KE, Abraham C, Joshi P, Wallace LM (2012). Sexual health professionals' evaluations of a prototype computer-based contraceptive planning intervention for adolescents: Implications for practice. Sexual Health, 9(4), 341-348. Abstract.

Gardner B, Abraham C, Lally P, De Bruijn GJ (2012). The habitual use of the self-report habit index': a reply. Annals of Behavioral Medicine, 43(1), 141-142.

Gardner B, Abraham C, Lally P, de Bruijn GJ (2012). Towards parsimony in habit measurement: Testing the convergent and predictive validity of an automaticity subscale of the Self-Report Habit Index. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 9 Abstract.

Crutzen R, Peters GJY, Abraham C (2012). What about trialists sharing other study materials?. BMJ (Online), 345(7887).

Atwell K, Abraham C, Duka T (2011). A parsimonious, integrative model of key psychological correlates of UK university students' alcohol consumption. Alcohol Alcohol, 46(3), 253-260. Abstract. Author URL.

Good A, Abraham C (2011). Can the effectiveness of health promotion campaigns be improved using self-efficacy and self-affirmation interventions? an analysis of sun protection messages. Psychol Health, 26(7), 799-818. Abstract. Author URL.

Graham-Rowe E, Skippon S, Gardner B, Abraham C (2011). Can we reduce car use and, if so, how? a review of available evidence. Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice, 45(5), 401-418. Abstract.

Abraham C (2011). Designing more effective behaviour change interventions. PSYCHOLOGIST, 24(12), 893-894. Author URL.

Abraham C, Johnson BT (2011). Editors' introduction to the special issue on health promotion interventions. Psychol Health, 26(2), 129-132. Author URL.

Abraham C, Sheeran P, Henderson M (2011). Extending social cognition models of health behaviour. Health Educ Res, 26(4), 624-637. Abstract. Author URL.

Michie S, Abraham C, Eccles MP, Francis JJ, Hardeman W, Johnston M (2011). Strengthening evaluation and implementation by specifying components of behaviour change interventions: a study protocol. IMPLEMENTATION SCIENCE, 6 Author URL.

Greaves CJ, Sheppard KE, Abraham C, Hardeman W, Roden M, Evans PH, Schwarz P, IMAGE Study Group (2011). Systematic review of reviews of intervention components associated with increased effectiveness in dietary and physical activity interventions. BMC Public Health, 11

BACKGROUND: to develop more efficient programmes for promoting dietary and/or physical activity change (in order to prevent type 2 diabetes) it is critical to ensure that the intervention components and characteristics most strongly associated with effectiveness are included. The aim of this systematic review of reviews was to identify intervention components that are associated with increased change in diet and/or physical activity in individuals at risk of type 2 diabetes. METHODS: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycInfo, and the Cochrane Library were searched for systematic reviews of interventions targeting diet and/or physical activity in adults at risk of developing type 2 diabetes from 1998 to 2008. Two reviewers independently selected reviews and rated methodological quality. Individual analyses from reviews relating effectiveness to intervention components were extracted, graded for evidence quality and summarised. RESULTS: of 3856 identified articles, 30 met the inclusion criteria and 129 analyses related intervention components to effectiveness. These included causal analyses (based on randomisation of participants to different intervention conditions) and associative analyses (e.g. meta-regression). Overall, interventions produced clinically meaningful weight loss (3-5 kg at 12 months; 2-3 kg at 36 months) and increased physical activity (30-60 mins/week of moderate activity at 12-18 months). Based on causal analyses, intervention effectiveness was increased by engaging social support, targeting both diet and physical activity, and using well-defined/established behaviour change techniques. Increased effectiveness was also associated with increased contact frequency and using a specific cluster of "self-regulatory" behaviour change techniques (e.g. goal-setting, self-monitoring). No clear relationships were found between effectiveness and intervention setting, delivery mode, study population or delivery provider. Evidence on long-term effectiveness suggested the need for greater consideration of behaviour maintenance strategies. CONCLUSIONS: This comprehensive review of reviews identifies specific components which are associated with increased effectiveness in interventions to promote change in diet and/or physical activity. To maximise the efficiency of programmes for diabetes prevention, practitioners and commissioning organisations should consider including these components.

Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Rivis A, Abraham C, Snook S (2011). Understanding young and older male drivers' willingness to drive while intoxicated: the predictive utility of constructs specified by the theory of planned behaviour and the prototype willingness model. Br J Health Psychol, 16(Pt 2), 445-456. Abstract. Author URL.

Paulweber B, Valensi P, Lindstrom J, Lalic NM, Greaves CJ, McKee M, Kissimova-Skarbek K, Liatis S, Cosson E, Szendroedi J, et al (2010). A European evidence-based guideline for the prevention of type 2 diabetes. Hormone and Metabolic Research, 42(Suppl.1), S3-S36. Abstract.

Johnston M, Michie S, Francis J, Eccles M, Abraham C, Hardeman W, Dixon D (2010). DEVELOPING a NOMENCLATURE FOR BEHAVIOUR CHANGE INTERVENTIONS. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BEHAVIORAL MEDICINE, 17, 71-72. Author URL.

Gardner B, Abraham C (2010). Going green? Modeling the Impact of environmental concerns and perceptions of transportation alternatives on decisions to drive. Journal of Applied Social Psychology, 40(4), 831-849. Abstract.

Abraham C, Graham-Rowe E (2009). Are worksite interventions effective in increasing physical activity? a meta-analytic review. PSYCHOLOGY & HEALTH, 24, 71-71. Author URL.

Abraham C, Graham-Rowe E (2009). Are worksite interventions effective in increasing physical activity? a systematic review and meta-analysis. Health Psychology Review, 3(1), 108-144. Abstract.

Kelly MP, Abraham C (2009). Behaviour change: the NICE perspective on the NICE guidance. Psychology and Health, 24(2), 131-133.

Richardson M, Abraham C (2009). Conscientiousness and achievement motivation predict performance. European Journal of Personality, 23(7), 589-605. Abstract.

Fife-Schaw C, Abraham C (2009). How much behaviour change should we expect from health promotion campaigns targeting cognitions? an approach to pre-intervention assessment. Psychology and Health, 24(7), 763-776. Abstract.

Abraham C, Sheeran P, Henderson M (2009). Integrating social structure and social cognition measures in explaining adolescent condom use. PSYCHOLOGY & HEALTH, 24, 71-71. Author URL.

Lemmens KPH, Abraham C, Ruiter RAC, Veldhuizen IJT, Dehing CJG, Bos AER, Schaalma HP (2009). Modelling antecedents of blood donation motivation among non-donors of varying age and education. British Journal of Psychology, 100(1), 71-90. Abstract.

Abraham C, Kelly MP, West R, Michie S (2009). The UK National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence public health guidance on behaviour change: a brief introduction. Psychol Health Med, 14(1), 1-8. Abstract. Author URL.

Abraham C, Gardner B (2009). What psychological and behaviour changes are initiated by 'expert patient' training and what training techniques are most helpful?. Psychol Health, 24(10), 1153-1165. Abstract. Author URL.

Abraham C, Michie S (2008). A taxonomy of behavior change techniques used in interventions. HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY, 27(3), 379-387. Author URL. Full text.

Michie S, Abraham C (2008). Advancing the science of behaviour change: a plea for scientific reporting. Addiction, 103(9), 1409-1410.

Michie S, Abraham C, Whittington C, McAteer J (2008). Behavior matters: What works in self-regulation interventions?. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY, 43(3-4), 558-558. Author URL.

Abraham C (2008). Beyond stages of change: Multi-determinant continuum models of action readiness and menu-based interventions. Applied Psychology, 57(1), 30-41. Abstract.

Sheeran P, Armitage C, Mann E, Abraham C (2008). Does changing attitudes, norms, or self-efficacy cause health behaviour change?. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY, 43(3-4), 351-351. Author URL.

Sibley E, Abraham C (2008). Does the health belief model provide a good theoretical basis for effective behaviour change interventions?. PSYCHOLOGY & HEALTH, 23, 25-25. Author URL.

Abraham C, Sibley E (2008). Does the health belief model provide a good theoretical basis for effective behaviour change interventions?. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY, 43(3-4), 351-351. Author URL.

Greaves CJ, Sheppard K, Abraham C, Evans P, Roden M, Schwarz P, Grp IGD (2008). Health psychology in action: Preventing type 2 diabetes: Recommendations on achieving lifestyle change from the IMAGE guideline development project. PSYCHOLOGY & HEALTH, 23, 17-17. Author URL.

Lemmens KPH, Abraham C, Ruiter RAC, Veldhuizen IJT, Bos AER, Schaalma HP (2008). Identifying blood donors willing to help with recruitment. Vox Sanguinis, 95(3), 211-217. Abstract.

Gardner B, Abraham C (2008). Psychological correlates of car use: a meta-analysis. Transportation Research Part F: Traffic Psychology and Behaviour, 11(4), 300-311. Abstract.

Hill CA, Abraham C (2008). School-based, randomised controlled trial of an evidence-based condom promotion leaflet. Psychology and Health, 23(1), 41-56. Abstract.

Peters GJY, Kok G, Abraham C (2008). Social cognitive determinants of ecstasy use to target in evidence-based interventions: a meta-analytical review. Addiction, 103(1), 109-118. Abstract.

Abraham C, Michie S, Whittington C, McAteer J (2008). Specifying self-regulation intervention techniques in the context of healthy eating. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY, 43(3-4), 575-575. Author URL.

Abraham C, Davidson KW, Kaplan RM, Michie S, Johnson BT, Schaalma H, Johnston M (2008). Standardising Behaviour Change Intervention Reports and Manuals. PSYCHOLOGY & HEALTH, 23, 39-39. Author URL.

Abraham C (2008). Symposium 10: Improving the science of behaviour change intervention evaluations. PSYCHOLOGY & HEALTH, 23, 38-38. Author URL.

Henderson M, Ecob R, Wight D, Abraham C (2008). What explains between-school differences in rates of smoking?. BMC PUBLIC HEALTH, 8 Author URL.

Hill C, Abraham C, Wright DB (2007). Can theory-based messages in combination with cognitive prompts promote exercise in classroom settings?. Soc Sci Med, 65(5), 1049-1058. Abstract. Author URL.

Luszczynska A, Gregajtys A, Abraham C (2007). Effects of a self-efficacy intervention on initiation of recommended exercises in patients with spondylosis. J Aging Phys Act, 15(1), 26-40. Abstract. Author URL.

Kelley K, Abraham C (2007). Health promotion for people aged over 65 years in hospitals: nurses' perceptions about their role. J Clin Nurs, 16(3), 569-579.

AIM: to identify nurses' beliefs about health promotion and its delivery in routine care of people aged over 65 years. BACKGROUND: Regardless of age, health promotion interventions can enhance health and, in general, older people are motivated to take such preventive action. The National Service Framework for Older People sets the promotion of healthy living as a standard for UK National Health Service Trusts. However, the delivery of health promotion is 'haphazard'; patients aged over 65 years rarely report receiving health promotion, and reports from nurses suggest they are unsure how to deliver effective health promotion. METHOD: a theory-based survey of all nurses working in a department specializing in the care of people aged over 65 years, 41% of questionnaires were returned. RESULTS: the majority of nurses identified examples of health promotion and 88% judged health promotion to be effective and worthwhile. Three quarters of the sample viewed health promotion as part of their role and most of the respondents were confident in their ability to provide health promotion. However, the respondents also reported that health promotion was not appropriate for all their patients and considered it an increasingly difficult task as people got older. Organizational barriers to the routine provision of health promotion were identified. CONCLUSION: Nurses working on wards for people aged over 65 years are mostly positive about integrating health promotion into their everyday work. However, for health promotion to be routinely implemented, all nursing staff need to feel confident in undertaking the task and believe it is worthwhile. Health promotion needs to be awarded greater importance by hospital management to ensure that it does not conflict with other work priorities. Until this happens the provision of health promotion in hospitals will remain sporadic and lack conviction. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: with an increasing older population nurses need to be confident and proficient at implementing health promotion to patients aged over 65 years. This survey demonstrates that nurses need more training and support to achieve this.

Abstract. Author URL.

Henderson M, Wight D, Raab GM, Abraham C, Parkes A, Scott S, Hart G (2007). Impact of a theoretically based sex education programme (SHARE) delivered by teachers on NHS registered conceptions and terminations: Final results of cluster randomised trial. British Medical Journal, 334(7585), 133-136. Abstract.

Ferguson E, France CR, Abraham C, Ditto B, Sheeran P (2007). Improving blood donor recruitment and retention: Integrating theoretical advances from social and behavioral science research agendas. Transfusion, 47(11), 1999-2010. Abstract.

Good A, Abraham C (2007). Measuring defensive responses to threatening messages: a meta-analysis of measures. Health Psychology Review, 1(2), 208-229. Abstract.

Luszczynska A, Sobczyk A, Abraham C (2007). Planning to lose weight: randomized controlled trial of an implementation intention prompt to enhance weight reduction among overweight and obese women. Health Psychol, 26(4), 507-512. Abstract. Author URL.

Murgaff V, Abraham C, McDermott M (2007). Reducing friday alcohol comsumption among moderate, women drinkers: Evaluation of a brief evidence-based intervention. Alcohol and Alcoholism, 42(1), 37-41. Abstract.

Maio GR, Verplanken B, Manstead ASR, Stroebe W, Abraham C, Sheeran P, Conner M (2007). Social Psychological Factors in Lifestyle Change and Their Relevance to Policy. SOCIAL ISSUES AND POLICY REVIEW, 1(1), 99-137. Author URL.

Gardner B, Abraham C (2007). What drives car use? a grounded theory analysis of commuters' reasons for driving. Transportation Research Part F: Traffic Psychology and Behaviour, 10(3), 187-200. Abstract.

Abraham C, Southby L, Quandte S, Krahé B, Van Der Sluijs W (2007). What's in a leaflet? Identifying research-based persuasive messages in European alcohol-education leaflets. Psychology and Health, 22(1), 31-60. Abstract.

Luszczynska A, Abraham C (2006). Forming plans about nutrition and exercise results in weight reduction. PSYCHOLOGY & HEALTH, 21, 94-94. Author URL.

Mann E, Abraham C (2006). The role of affect in UK commuters' travel mode choices: an interpretative phenomenological analysis. Br J Psychol, 97(Pt 2), 155-176. Abstract. Author URL.

Myers L, Abraham C (2005). Beyond 'doctor's orders'. Psychologist, 18(11), 680-683.

Krahé B, Abraham C, Scheinberger-Olwig R (2005). Can safer-sex promotion leaflets change cognitive antecedents of condom use? an experimental evaluation. British Journal of Health Psychology, 10(2), 203-220. Abstract.

Abraham C, Michie S (2005). Contributing to public health policy and practice. Psychologist, 18(11), 676-679.

Michie S, Johnston M, Abraham C, Lawton R, Parker D, Walker A (2005). Making psychological theory useful for implementing evidence based practice: a consensus approach. Quality and Safety in Health Care, 14(1), 26-33. Abstract.

Krahé B, Abraham C, Felber J, Helbig MK (2005). Perceived discrimination of international visitors to universities in Germany and the UK. British Journal of Psychology, 96(3), 263-281. Abstract.

Kellar I, Abraham C (2005). Randomized controlled trial of a brief research-based intervention promoting fruit and vegetable consumption. British Journal of Health Psychology, 10(4), 543-558. Abstract.

Abraham C (2005). Sequencing and prioritising of intentions in planned behaviour. PSYCHOLOGY & HEALTH, 20, 9-10. Author URL.

Abraham C, Dudley J (2005). Simple explanations increase comprehension of terms used in oncology consultations. PSYCHOLOGY & HEALTH, 20, 10-10. Author URL.

Lemmens KPH, Abraham C, Hoekstra T, Ruiter RAC, De Kort WLAM, Brug J, Schaalma HP (2005). Why don't young people volunteer to give blood? an investigation of the correlates of donation intentions among young nondonors. TRANSFUSION, 45(6), 945-955. Author URL.

Abraham C, Henderson M, Der G (2004). Cognitive impact of a research-based school sex education programme. Psychology and Health, 19(6), 689-703. Abstract.

Wilkinson D, Abraham C (2004). Constructing an integrated model of the antecedents of adolescent smoking. Br J Health Psychol, 9(Pt 3), 315-333. Abstract. Author URL.

Abraham C, Sheeran P (2004). Deciding to exercise: the role of anticipated regret. Br J Health Psychol, 9(Pt 2), 269-278. Abstract. Author URL.

Michie S, Abraham C (2004). Interventions to change health ehaviours: Evidence-based or vidence-inspired?. Psychology and Health, 19(1), 29-49. Abstract.

Kelley K, Abraham C (2004). RCT of a theory-based intervention promoting healthy eating and physical activity amongst out-patients older than 65 years. Soc Sci Med, 59(4), 787-797. Abstract. Author URL.

Abraham C, Sheeran P (2003). Acting on intentions: the role of anticipated regret. Br J Soc Psychol, 42(Pt 4), 495-511. Abstract. Author URL.

Abraham C, Sheeran P (2003). Implications of goal theories for the theories of reasoned action and planned behaviour. Current Psychology, 22(3), 264-280. Abstract.

Chapman K, Abraham C, Jenkins V, Fallowfield L (2003). Lay understanding of terms used in cancer consultations. Psychooncology, 12(6), 557-566. Abstract. Author URL.

Sheeran P, Abraham C (2003). Mediator of moderators: Temporal stability of intention and the intention-behavior relation. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 29(2), 205-215. Abstract.

Phillips P, Abraham C, Bond R (2003). Personality, Cognition, and University Students' Examination Performance. European Journal of Personality, 17(6), 435-448. Abstract.

Abraham C, Krahé B, Dominic R, Fritsche I (2002). Do health promotion messages target cognitive and behavioural correlates of condom use? a content analysis of safer sex promotion leaflets in two countries. Br J Health Psychol, 7(Pt 2), 227-246. Abstract. Author URL.

Wight D, Raab GM, Henderson M, Abraham C, Buston K, Hart G, Scott S (2002). Limits of teacher delivered sex education: Interim behavioural outcomes from randomised trial. British Medical Journal, 324(7351), 1430-1433. Abstract.

Abraham C, Gregory N, Wolf L, Pemberton R (2002). Self-esteem, Stigma and Community Participation Amongst People with Learning Difficulties Living in the Community. Journal of Community and Applied Social Psychology, 12(6), 430-443. Abstract.

Conner M, Abraham C (2001). Conscientiousness and the theory of planned behavior: Toward a more complete model of the antecedents of intentions and behavior. PERSONALITY AND SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY BULLETIN, 27(11), 1547-1561. Author URL.

Kelley K, Bond R, Abraham C (2001). Effective approaches to persuading pregnant women to quit smoking: a meta-analysis of intervention evaluation studies. Br J Health Psychol, 6(Pt 3), 207-228. Abstract. Author URL.

Jones F, Abraham C, Harris P, Schulz J, Chrispin C (2001). From knowledge to action regulation: Modeling the cognitive prerequisites of sun screen use in Australian and UK samples. Psychology and Health, 16(2), 191-206. Abstract.

Abraham C (2001). Predicting health behaviour: Research and practice with social cognition models. PSYCHOLOGIST, 14(5), 260-260. Author URL.

Ruiter RAC, Abraham C, Kok G (2001). Scary warnings and rational precautions: a review of the psychology of fear appeals. Psychology and Health, 16(6), 613-630. Abstract.

Wight D, Henderson M, Raab G, Abraham C, Buston K, Scott S, Hart G (2000). Extent of regretted sexual intercourse among young teenagers in Scotland: a cross sectional survey. British Medical Journal, 320(7244), 1243-1244. Abstract.

Wight D, Abraham C (2000). From psycho-social theory to sustainable classroom practice: developing a research-based teacher-delivered sex education programme. Health Educ Res, 15(1), 25-38. Abstract. Author URL.

Abraham C, Costa-Pereira A, Florey CD, Ogston S (1999). Cognitions associated with initial medical consultations concerning recurrent breathing difficulties: a community-based study. PSYCHOLOGY & HEALTH, 14(5), 913-925. Author URL.

Abraham C, Clift S, Grabowski P (1999). Cognitive predictors of adherence to malaria prophylaxis regimens on return from a malarious region: a prospective study. Soc Sci Med, 48(11), 1641-1654. Abstract. Author URL.

Sheeran P, Abraham C, Orbell S (1999). Psychosocial Correlates of Heterosexual Condom Use: a Meta-Analysis. Psychological Bulletin, 125(1), 90-132. Abstract.

Abraham C, Sheeran P, Norman P, Conner M, De Vries N, Otten W (1999). When good intentions are not enough: Modeling postdecisional cognitive correlates of condom use. Journal of Applied Social Psychology, 29(12), 2591-2612. Abstract.

Abraham C, Sheeran P, Orbell S (1998). Can social cognitive models contribute to the effectiveness of HIV-preventive behavioural interventions? a brief review of the literature and a reply to Joffe (1996; 1997) and Fife-Schaw (1997). Br J Med Psychol, 71 ( Pt 3), 297-310. Abstract. Author URL.

Abraham C, Sheeran P, Orbell S (1998). Can social cognitive models contribute to the effectiveness of HIV-preventive behavioural interventions? a brief review of the literature and a reply to Joffe (1996; 1997) and Fife-Schaw (1997). British Journal of Medical Psychology, 71(3), 297-310. Abstract.

Abraham C, Sheeran P, Wight D (1998). Designing research-based materials to promote safer sex amongst young people. Psychology, Health and Medicine, 3(1), 127-131. Abstract.

Abraham C, Sheeran P, Johnston M (1998). From health beliefs to self-regulation: Theoretical advances in the psychology of action control. Psychology and Health, 13(4), 569-591. Abstract.

Wight D, Abraham C, Scott S (1998). Towards a psycho-social theoretical framework for sexual health promotion. Health Education Research, 13(3), 317-330. Abstract.

Abraham C (1997). The psychology of preventive health - Pitts,M. SOCIAL SCIENCE & MEDICINE, 45(10), 1603-1603. Author URL.

Abraham C, Hampson SE (1996). A social cognition approach to health psychology: Philosophical and methodological issues. Psychology and Health, 11(2), 223-241. Abstract.

Abraham C, Wight D (1996). Developing HIV-preventive behavioural interventions for young people in Scotland. Int J STD AIDS, 7 Suppl 2, 39-42. Author URL.

Abraham CS, Sheeran P, Abrams D, Spears R (1996). Health beliefs and teenage condom use: a prospective study. Psychology and Health, 11(5), 641-655. Abstract.

Moir J, Abraham C (1996). Why I want to be a psychiatric nurse: Constructing an identity through contrasts with general nursing. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 23(2), 295-298. Abstract.

SPEARS R, ABRAHAM C, SHEERAN P, ABRAMS D (1995). STUDENTS JUDGMENTS OF THE RISKS OF HIV-INFECTION AS a FUNCTION OF SEXUAL PRACTICE, SEX OF TARGET AND PARTNER, AND AGE AND SEX OF STUDENT. JOURNAL OF COLLEGE STUDENT DEVELOPMENT, 36(2), 103-111. Author URL.

Sheeran P, Abraham C (1994). Measurement of condom use in 72 studies of HIV-preventive behaviour: a critical review. Patient Education and Counseling, 24(3), 199-216. Abstract.

BROTHERTON CJ, LEATHER PJ, LLEWELYN SP, BANNISTER P, BETNEY G, CHMIEL N, HOLMES DA, JEFFERSON J, LEWIS S, LOMAX C, et al (1987). LINKS BETWEEN PSYCHOLOGY IN BRITAIN AND SOUTH-AFRICA. BULLETIN OF THE BRITISH PSYCHOLOGICAL SOCIETY, 40, 27-28. Author URL.

Chapters

Denford S, Abraham S, Smith J, Morgan-Trimmer S, Lloyd J, Wyatt K (2016). Intervention design and evaluation: behaviour change imperatives. In Spotswood F (Ed) Beyond behaviour change Key issues, interdisciplinary approaches and future directions, Bristol: Policy Press, 49-70. Abstract.

Abraham C, Denford S, Dean S, Greaves C, Lloyd J, Tarrant M, White M, Wyatt K (2015). Designing Interventions to Change Health-related Behaviour. In Richards D, Hallberg IR (Eds.) Complex Interventions in Health: an Overview of Research Methods, Routledge, 103-110.

Denford S, Abraham C, Smith J, Lloyd J, White M, Tarrant M, Wyatt K, Greaves C, Dean S (2015). Designing and evaluating behavior change interventions to promote health. In Reynolds KJ, Branscombe NR (Eds.) The Psychology of Change: Life Contexts, Experiences, and Identities, New York: Psychology Press, Taylor & Francis, 151-169.

Abraham C, Sheeran P (2014). The health belief model. In (Ed) Cambridge Handbook of Psychology, Health and Medicine, Second Edition, 97-102. Abstract.

Michie S, Abraham C, Johnston M (2009). Health Psychology Training: the UK Model. In (Ed) Health Psychology in Practice, 5-45.

Michie S, Abraham C (2009). Health Psychology in Practice: Introduction. In (Ed) Health Psychology in Practice, 1-4.

Abraham C (2009). Using Theory in Research. In (Ed) Health Psychology in Practice, 63-82.

Conferences

Abraham C, Smith JR (2016). A FRAMEWORK FOR DESIGNING BRIEF COMMUNICATIONS TO PROMOTE HEALTH-RELATED BEHAVIOUR CHANGE. Author URL.

Borek A, Abraham C, Greaves C, Tarrant M (2016). CHANGE PROCESSES AND EFFECTIVENESS IN GROUP-BASED WEIGHT LOSS INTERVENTIONS. Author URL.

van Beurden SB, Greaves CJ, Smith JR, Abraham C, Lawrence N (2016). FACILITATING WEIGHT LOSS WITH THE IMPULSEPAL APP': a FEASIBILITY STUDY. Author URL.

Borek A, Abraham C, Greaves C, Tarrant M, Smith JR (2016). HOW DO DIABETES PREVENTION GROUPS GENERATE INDIVIDUAL CHANGE?. Author URL.

Smith JR, Borek A, Abraham C, Greaves C, Morgan-Trimmer S, Gillison F, Jones M, Keable J, Tarrant M, McCabe R, et al (2016). MECHANISMS OF ACTION IN GROUP INTERVENTIONS (MAGI) STUDY: INITIAL FINDINGS AND a CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK. Author URL. Full text.

van Beurden SB, Greaves CJ, Smith JR, Abraham C (2016). TECHNIQUES FOR MODIFYING IMPULSIVE PROCESSES ASSOCIATED WITH UNHEALTHY EATING: a SYSTEMATIC REVIEW. Author URL.

Smith JR, Greaves C, Abraham C, Thompson JL, Taylor R, Jones M, Kok M, Armstrong R, Coleman S, Solomon-Moores E, et al (2016). THE COMMUNITY-BASED PREVENTION OF DIABETES (COMPOD) TRIAL OF THE VOLUNTARY SECTOR-LED LIVING WELL, TAKING CONTROL (LWTC) DIABETES PREVENTION PROGRAMME. Author URL.

Abraham C (2016). TOWARDS SYSTEMATIC AND COMPREHENSIVE CHARACTERISATION OF THE CONTENT OF BEHAVIOR CHANGE INTERVENTIONS. Author URL.

Sheeran P, Rothman A, Abraham C, Klein W (2016). UNDERSTANDING WHAT WORKS IN INTERVENTIONS DESIGNED TO CHANGE HEALTH BEHAVIOUR: NEW APPROACHES TO LINKING THEORY RESEARCH DESIGN, AND EVIDENCE. Author URL.

Lake AJ, Browne JL, Rees G, Abraham C, Speight J (2016). USING MULTIPLE RESEARCH METHODS TO DEVELOP a TAILORED EYE HEALTH LEAFLET FOR YOUNG ADULTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES. Author URL.

Abraham C, Onya H, Aarø L, Smith JR, Devine-Wright H, Wubs A, Ramatsea S, Themane M, Mashamba J (2015). Evaluation of a culturally-situated, research-based HIV-prevention program in South African Schools (symposium presentation). European Health Psychology Society Conference.

Van Beurden S, Greaves CJ, Smith JR, Abraham S (2015). Identifying techniques for modifying impulsive influences on eating behaviour: a systematic review (oral presentation). European Health Psychology Conference.

Smith JR, Murray NJ, Greaves CJ, Abraham S, Hooper L (2014). A systematic review of intervention studies using Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) model components to target behaviours for preventing and managing chronic diseases (oral presentation). European Health Psychology Conference.

Borek A, Abraham S, Smith JR, Tarrant M, Greaves C (2014). Reporting of group-based behavioural interventions: a checklist and tool for assessing the quality of descriptions (oral presentation). European Health Psychology Society Conference.

Clarke A, Mitchell A, Abraham C (2014). Understanding donation experiences of unspecified (altruistic) kidney donors. Abstract.

Abraham C (2013). FROM KNOWLEDGE AND BELIEFS TO BEHAVIOUR CHANGE. Author URL.

Borek A, Abraham C, Greaves C, Tarrant M (2013). Group-based weight-loss programmes: a systematic review. Author URL.

Warmoth K, Tarrant M, Lang I, Abraham C (2013). THINKING YOU'RE OLD AND FRAIL: a QUALITATIVE STUDY OF OLDER ADULTS' BELIEFS REGARDING FRAILTY. Author URL.

Borek A, Abraham C, Greaves C, Tarrant M (2013). The role of group processes in facilitating change in group-based health interventions. Author URL.

Tang J, Abraham C, Greaves C (2013). Understanding adults' experiences of internet-based weight loss/maintenance interventions: a qualitative study. Author URL.

Johnston M, Michie S, Abraham C, Francis J, Hardeman W, Eccles M, Richardson M, Cane J (2012). AN 87-ITEM TAXONOMY OF BEHAVIOR CHANGE TECHNIQUES: BUILDING AN INTERNATIONAL CONSENSUS FOR THE REPORTING OF BEHAVIOR CHANGE INTERVENTIONS. Author URL.

Schaalma HP, Abraham C, Gillmore MR, Kok G (2004). Sex education as health promotion: What does it take?. Abstract.

Publications by year

In Press

Abstract. Author URL.

Abraham C (In Press). Charting variability to ensure conceptual and design precision: a comment on Ogden (2016). Health Psychol Rev, 10(3), 260-264. Author URL. Full text.

Denford S, Lakshman R, Callaghan M, Abraham C (In Press). Improving public health evaluation: a qualitative investigation of practitioners' needs. BMC Public Health, 18(1).

Abstract. Author URL.

Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Warmoth KM, Tarrant M, Abraham, Lang (In Press). Relationship between perceptions of ageing and frailty in English older adults. Psychology, Health and Medicine, 23(4), 465-474. Full text.

Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

Abstract. Author URL.

Smith JR, Louis WR, Abraham C (In Press). When and how does normative feedback reduce intentions to drink irresponsibly?. An experimental investigation. Addiction Research and Theory Full text.

2018

2017

Abstract. Author URL. Full text.

2016