Behavior Change Techniques Involved in Physical Activity Interventions for Children with Chronic Conditions: A Systematic Review

Background: Behavior change techniques (BCTs) have been extensively used in physical activity interventions for children, however, no systematic reviews have synthesized their effects. Purpose: The present review aimed to identify the most promising BCTs used in physical activity interventions associated with (i) increased physical activity behavior and (ii) positive psychosocial outcomes in children with chronic conditions. Methods: A systematic search of 6 databases identified 61 articles as eligible for inclusion. Data, including BCTs, were extracted from these studies and analyzed descriptively. Due to the heterogeneity of interventions, chronic conditions, and outcome measures, a meta-analysis was not conducted. Results: Social support (unspecified), graded tasks, generalization of target behavior, and credible source were the most commonly reported and most promising (i.e., present in 2+ studies evidencing significant effects) BCTs across all studies. These BCTs were found to be especially relevant to improving psychosocial outcomes in the short- and long-term and improving physical activity behaviors in the long-term. Meanwhile, to improve short-term physical activity behaviors, in addition to social support (unspecified), action planning, goal setting (behavior), and problem solving were found to be promising BCTs. Conclusions: The BCTs identified in this review may be relevant to incorporate when planning future interventions to support physical activity and psychosocial outcomes for children with chronic conditions.