SOS: systems of sedentary behaviour framework

Ecological models are currently in fashion to study and influence energy balance related behaviours, including sedentary behaviour. However, these ecological models are limited in their ability to capture the complexity of and interplay between determinants. The aim of the project described in a recent publication in the International Journal of Behavioural Nutrition and Physical Activity, with Seb Chasten as first author, was to develop a transdisciplinary dynamic framework, grounded in a system-based approach, for research on determinants of sedentary behaviour across the life span and intervention and policy planning and evaluation. This endeavour was part of the Determinants of Diet and Physical Activity (DEDIPAC) knowledge hub of the Healthy Diet for a Healthy Life joint programming initiative.

We conducted a comprehensive concept mapping approach to develop what we call the Systems Of Sedentary behaviours (SOS) framework, involving four main phases: (1) preparation, (2) generation of statements, (3) structuring (sorting and ranking), and (4) analysis and interpretation.

During the first phase, 550 factors regarding sedentary behaviour were listed across three age groups (i.e., youth, adults and older adults), which were reduced to a final list of 190 life course factors in phase 2 used during the consensus meeting. In total, 69 international delegates, seven invited experts and one concept mapping consultant attended this consensus meeting. The final framework obtained during that meeting consisted of six clusters of determinants: Physical Health and Wellbeing (71 % consensus), Social and Cultural Context (59 % consensus), Built and Natural Environment (65 % consensus), Psychology and Behaviour (80 % consensus), Politics and Economics (78 % consensus), and Institutional and Home Settings (78 % consensus). Conducting studies on Institutional Settings was ranked as the first research priority. The view that this framework captures a system-based map of determinants of sedentary behaviour was expressed by 89 % of the participants.

In summary, through an international transdisciplinary consensus process, the SOS framework was developed for the determinants of sedentary behaviour through the life course. Investigating the influence of Institutional and Home Settings was deemed to be the most important area of research to focus on at present and potentially the most modifiable. The SOS framework can be used as an important tool to prioritise future research and to develop policies to reduce sedentary time.