Intervention mapping[1] is a protocol for developing theory-based and evidence-based health promotion programs. Intervention Mapping describes the process of health promotion program planning in six steps:
Intervention mapping is characterized by three perspectives: an ecological approach, participation of all stakeholders, and the use of theories and evidence. Although intervention mapping is presented as a series of steps, the authors see the planning process as iterative rather than linear.[1] Program planners move back and forth between tasks and steps. The process is also cumulative: each step is based on previous steps, and inattention to a particular step may lead to mistakes and inadequate decisions.[citation needed]
Intervention mapping was first developed and introduced in 1998 by L. Kay Bartholomew, Guy S. Parcel & Gerjo Kok,[2] with an article in Health Education & Behavior. In 2001 the first edition of the book followed, with Nell H. Gottlieb as 4th author.[3] In 2006, the 2nd edition was published,[4] and in 2011, the 3rd edition, with Maria E. Fernández as 5th author.[5] The 4th edition appeared in 2016, authored by L. Kay Bartholomew Eldridge, Christine M. Markham, Robert A.C. Ruiter, Maria Fernández, Gerjo Kok & Guy S. Parcel.[1] This was the last edition led by L. Kay Bartholomew Eldridge, who died in February 2016.[citation needed]
Intervention mapping was developed as a reaction to a lack of comprehensive frameworks for health promotion program development.[2] Intervention mapping aims to help health promoters develop the best possible intervention. The key words in this protocol are planning, research, and theory. Intervention mapping provides a vocabulary for intervention planning, procedures for planning activities, and technical assistance with identifying theory-based determinants and methods for change. Intervention mapping can also help in adapting existing interventions to new populations and settings,[5] and provides a taxonomy of behavior change methods that can be used to code intervention content.[6][7] In the health promotion field, intervention mapping has successfully been applied in various settings, to a wide range of different behaviors and populations.[5] It may help planners develop theory- and evidence-based interventions to promote healthy behavior.
More specifically, intervention mapping ensures that theoretical models and empirical evidence guide planners in two areas: (1) the identification of behavioral and environmental determinants related to a target problem, and (2) the selection of the most appropriate theoretical methods and practical applications to address the identified determinants. Intervention mapping has been described as complex and elaborate.[8][9][10] However, this is crucial to bring the development of interventions to a higher level,[11] indicating that advantages outweighed disadvantages. Intervention mapping is developed in the health promotion field but can easily be applied in other fields, such as promoting energy conservation.[12]
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