Physical Wel-being of Students and Role of Nudges in Compliance to Healthy Behaviours

Nudges are a promising approach to promoting healthier habits among young adults who might otherwise find it difficult to uphold a healthy lifestyle in the face of social and academic demands. This research paper examines the physical well-being of college-going students of Delhi University employing the Trans-Theoretical Model of Change (TTM). The primary objective of the study was to understand students' perceptions of their physical well-being and analyze the stages of their physical well-being as per the TTM. Responses from a sample of one hundred students using a pre-tested attitudinal scale with respect to key components of physical well-being such as nutrition, fitness, brisk walking, etc. were commutated in alignment with the 5 levels of stages of change. The findings indicated that while most students recognized the importance of physical well-being, their engagement in healthy behaviours varied significantly across the TTM stages. Nudges, such as reminders and incentives, and daily enforcement of a nutritious diet in a college that teaches courses in nutrition have been found to positively influence students' movement towards better physical well-being. The study concludes that targeted nudges can be an effective strategy to promote healthier lifestyle and physical wellness among students, thereby enhancing their overall well-being and academic performance. This highlights how behavioural nudges can encourage healthier lifestyles among college students by analyzing the relationship between academic performance and physical well-being. This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and fosters long-term progress in health and education outcomes.