This article explores how behavioral theory can facilitate the development, implementation, and evaluation of health promotion software packages intended to influence personal health practices and/or assess health risks. Current behavioral theories and models are reviewed, and their relevance to developing health promotion software is discussed. A series of six steps is suggested for developing and evaluating health promotion and appraisal software within a behavioral theory framework. These steps should help to facilitate direct application of the theory-based process to health promotion software development.
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