A Semantic Web Framework for Behavioral User Modeling and Action Planning for Personalized Behavior Modification

Behavior plays an important role in managing chronic illnesses, with e.g., smoking, unhealthy diet, and physical inactivity often causing or worsening chronic illnesses. To attain long-term healthy behaviors, personalized behavior modification programs are known to be effective. The design of such programs requires (a) developing a patient model that represents the patient’s health needs, behavior challenges and preferences, as well as their perceived abilities; and (b) personalization of standard behaviour modification programs towards the patient model. We present a knowledge-driven, Semantic Web-based behavior modification framework, guided by Social Cognitive Theory, which computerizes core behavioral constructs into an OWL ontology. Based on this ontology, concrete patient models and behavior modification programs are instantiated. A preliminary scenario-based evaluation demonstrates the system’s ability to personalize action plans towards unique patient models and behavioral challenges.