ROLE OF HABIT FORMATION IN BEHAVIOURAL CHANGE

Abstract

Habit formation plays a fundamental role in behavioural change, driven by psychological and cognitive processes that shape daily actions. This study explores the mechanisms of habit formation, emphasizing reinforcement, motivation, and automaticity in sustaining behaviours. Cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and decision-making contribute to habit development, reducing cognitive load and enhancing long-term consistency. Additionally, environmental and social factors significantly influence habitual behaviours, with stable contexts, accessibility, peer influence, and cultural norms shaping habit formation. Effective strategies, including the habit loop, implementation intentions, habit stacking, and reinforcement, promote positive behavioural change, yet various psychological, environmental, and cognitive barriers hinder consistency. Lack of motivation, decision fatigue, and competing habits often disrupt sustainable behavioural modifications. This research assesses the impact of habit consistency on long-term sustainability, highlighting that repeated behaviours in stable environments reinforce neural pathways and reduce reliance on conscious effort.