3c. Focus on Nudging:
Using Environmental Cues to Guide Behaviour Change  

One of the newer behaviour change concepts described in your required readings involves nudging, the presentation of alternatives in a way that makes the desired behaviour the easier, automatic, or default choice.^{1, 2}

Find out more about nudge theory from this video:

The private, for-profit sector has long understood the importance of nudges as behavioural influences. For example, we see nudges at work every time we go into a supermarket. Supermarkets have been designed very strategically, in ways that encourage us to spend more on unhealthy foods and beverages. We see this through which products are stored at eye-level, how different sections are spaced, and what types of product are available beside the checkout. Does this grocery store checkout counter, with candy bars and other unhealthy snack food items lining the way, look familiar?

As nudge theory becomes more accepted in the public health sector, researchers and decision-makers are beginning to consider how we can use the same principles to promote healthier behaviours among individuals. Compare the earlier grocery store photo of unhealthy options at the checkout to this checkout counter, featuring healthier options such as fruit and physical activity equipment, at a Walmart in the United States.

This creative nudge encourages people to use the stairs instead of the escalator:

As we progress through this course, I encourage you to look for examples of nudging (both healthy and unhealthy) in your daily lives.