Behavior Substitution

What is Behavior Substitution?

Behavior substitution, also called behavioral substitution, replaces an unwanted action with a wanted or neutral alternative. BCT Taxonomy v1 identifies it as technique 8.2.

For example, someone might choose a brief walk instead of a browsing session they want to avoid. The replacement is specific: take a brief walk when you would otherwise browse. Whether it becomes a workable substitute depends on the person and the situation.

Choose an alternative the person can actually do at that moment. Then check whether they use it. A substitute need not satisfy an identical psychological need, and simply choosing one does not make it a habit. Repetition or rewards for the alternative would add other components to the intervention.

BCT Taxonomy v1 supplies a standardized definition. It identifies the technique; it does not establish that a particular substitute will work.