Enabling Lasting Behavioral Change: Evidence-Based Strategies for Organizational Implementation, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

Abstract: This article synthesizes research on behavioral change determinants and intervention strategies, drawing primarily from Albarracín et al.'s (2024) comprehensive meta-analysis of 147 studies. While many behavioral change frameworks focus on individual cognition, evidence suggests that high-impact interventions target access, habits, social support, attitudes, norms, and skills. The analysis reveals that structural and environmental factors often outperform information-based or attitudinal approaches. Organizations seeking to implement sustainable behavioral change should prioritize removing barriers, building supportive social structures, facilitating habit formation, and addressing practical enablers rather than relying on persuasion alone. Case examples across healthcare, sustainability, and workplace safety illustrate how these principles translate into organizational practice. The findings provide evidence-based guidance for leaders designing change initiatives that achieve lasting behavioral adoption rather than temporary compliance.