Can a theory-informed interactive animation increase intentions to engage in physical activity in young people with asthma?

A theoretically-informed interactive animation was developed, using themes drawn from psychology, sociology, applied health research, and narrative theory, which aimed to encourage young people with asthma to engage in physical activity. The animation was evaluated using qualitative and quantitative methods. A web-based Interactive Modelling Experiment was used to evaluate whether the animation was effective in three key areas: knowledge about asthma, inhaler use, and intention to increase physical activity. One-to-one interviews and focus groups were used to evaluate the acceptability of the animation and whether the theoretical basis was effective. Preliminary qualitative findings indicate good acceptability and perceived effectiveness. The quantitative findings are less clear, with a change in simulated activity and inhaler use being found, but with no clear association between these changes and the animation itself. Future work will be carried out to established whether these levels of acceptability and perceived effectiveness are actually translated into behaviour change.