Table 2 Summary of data reported for integrating theory (proposition one)

Proposition one: Integration of relevant theories

Descriptions of theories, including any references regarding the relationships among the specific mid-range theories for the various dimensions of Multiple Intervention Programs including: the targets of change, channels, settings, and intervention strategies

A 'shopping list' of theories was reported

The 'program operated at the individual, group and community levels and encompassed a wide range of strategies stimulated by social learning theory, persuasive communications theory and models for the involvement of community leaders and institutions' [35:p.203]

Most often, use of isolated theories was described for specific intervention design features

'The innovation of diffusion theory provided a central framework for the project team... the role of the project as a change agent was to promote the diffusion of the lifestyle innovations of quitting smoking and adopting low fat diets' [30: p.42]

Organizational change theory was directed at improving the 'macro environment' while influencing individuals 'choices and opportunities to change' [38: p.8]

Some reporting about the relationships among theoretical concepts through use of planning tool, such as a logic model

'The approaches described above are unified...to depict the behavioural/social model of community intervention found to be most relevant' [30: p.43]