gms | German Medical Science

Introduction: Health behavior change plays an integral role in alleviating public health burden associated with smoking; behavior change techniques (BCTs) can contribute to health behavior change by building on available resources.

Purpose: We outline the theoretical framework of a novel two-arm smoking cessation program consisting of an electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) device and an app-based, cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) component.

Methods: Based on existing evidence, program components hypothesized to contribute to successful smoking cessation, their respective action steps, and the internal affective, internal reflective and external resources they draw from are conceptualized. Program components are discussed within the framework of the Behavior Change Resource Model (BCRM).

Results: Program components include the gradual decrease of nicotine concentration, adherence to a daily puff budget, educational modules, and mindfulness-based stress management exercises. Additionally, a self-monitoring tool is introduced to monitor changes of self-efficacy/internal control attribution. The different components reflect BCTs including facilitating, boosting, and nudging through actions such as self-monitoring and modification of smoking-related attitudes and beliefs. Addressed resources include knowledge, behavioral regulation, and motivation.

Conclusion: The theoretical framework should be evaluated using data derived from a trial currently in planning in order to determine whether, and to what degree, user participation in program components predicts smoking cessation. Finally, an integrating, comprehensive score to monitor the BCT path is outlined.

The authors declare that they have no competing interests.

The authors declare that an ethics committee vote is not required.