Which is an implementation intention example for increasing fruit and vegetable intake?

Which is an implementation intention example for increasing fruit and vegetable intake?

• A. I will try to eat healthier.
• B. If it is 10 a.m., I will have a piece of fruit, and at lunch I will include a vegetable-based side.
• C. I will eat fruit sometimes.
• D. I will avoid all snacks.

Answer: (B)

Implementation intentions are specific if-then plans that link a particular situation to a concrete action. This example uses a time cue (10 a.m.) and states exactly what will be done: have a piece of fruit, and at lunch include a vegetable-based side. This creates clear triggers and behaviors, making it much more likely you’ll follow through because you don’t rely on motivation in the moment; the cue tells you exactly what to do. General goals or vague statements (like trying to eat healthier or eating fruit sometimes) don’t specify when or how to act, so they don’t set up automatic initiation of the desired behavior. An avoidance statement (like avoiding all snacks) focuses on restriction rather than a practical plan to increase fruit and vegetable intake. This is why the time-specific, action-specific plan best fits the idea of an implementation intention.

Implementation intentions are specific if-then plans that link a particular situation to a concrete action. This example uses a time cue (10 a.m.) and states exactly what will be done: have a piece of fruit, and at lunch include a vegetable-based side. This creates clear triggers and behaviors, making it much more likely you’ll follow through because you don’t rely on motivation in the moment; the cue tells you exactly what to do.

General goals or vague statements (like trying to eat healthier or eating fruit sometimes) don’t specify when or how to act, so they don’t set up automatic initiation of the desired behavior. An avoidance statement (like avoiding all snacks) focuses on restriction rather than a practical plan to increase fruit and vegetable intake. This is why the time-specific, action-specific plan best fits the idea of an implementation intention.