What is Behaviour Change? Towards a Working Typology
Abstract
Behaviour change is integral to development programming but lacks a precise, practical typology in the literature. This paper develops a working classification of behaviour changes drawn from practical experience and the Mechanisms of Social Change framework. It categorizes behaviour changes along dimensions of who (actor types), does what (action nature), and to what using what (resources involved), addressing gaps in existing taxonomies by focusing on observable, measurable changes. The typology distinguishes between start/stop behaviour changes (new actions or cessation of actions), action characteristic changes (how actions are performed), and resource changes (modifications to input resources). Within each category, the paper identifies specific types -such as changes in how, how much, how often, when, with whom, where, and with what resources. This practical categorization enables programmes to clearly define their desired behaviour changes and to learn which types of changes work in which contexts.
Key takeaways
- Behaviour change should be precisely defined using observable categories based on who, what, and how resources are used, rather than relying on vague outcome statements
- The typology distinguishes between fundamental changes (start/stop of actions), modification changes (how actions are performed differently), and resource changes (quality, quantity, timing, and type of inputs)
- Understanding behaviour change types helps programmes clarify what behaviour changes they seek to achieve and compare effectiveness across different contexts
- This practical classification system bridges the gap between development programme intent and the precise measurement needed to understand what behaviour changes actually work