<p>This study aimed to develop and test an integrated theoretical model of adolescents sleep hygiene behaviors by incorporating cross-behavior cognitions, including transfer cognitions and compensatory health beliefs, into the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA). A two-wave prospective study was conducted among 3,406 adolescents in western China across two survey waves beginning in November 2023, with each cohort followed for approximately six months after baseline assessment. Structural equation modeling and multi-group analyses were used to examine subgroup differences. Post hoc and polynomial trend analyses explored stage-specific patterns and nonlinaer trends. Transfer cognitions were positively associated with both behavioral intention (β = 0.103, 95%CI = 0.055 to 0.154) and sleep hygiene behaviors (β = 0.096, 95%CI = 0.061 to 0.134). Compensatory health beliefs were negatively associated with both behavioral intention (β=−0.143, 95%CI = − 0.187 to − 0.100) and sleep hygiene behaviors (β=−0.101, 95%CI = − 0.143 to − 0.064). Several psychological variables exhibited discontinuous patterns across stages. Gender, ethnicity, and left-behind status moderated specific pathways. Comparative analysis showed changes in transfer cognitions, compensatory health beliefs, risk perception, and positive outcome expectancies after the intervention period; however, similar improvements were also observed in the control group, and sleep hygiene behaviors did not significantly improve in the intervention group. The findings support an integrated model in which transfer cognitions exhibit a positive association with, whereas compensatory health beliefs display a negative association with, both intention and sleep hygiene behaviors among adolescents. The findings highlight stage-specific dynamics and sociodemographic variations, and may offer preliminary guidance for tailored interventions. </p>