410.668.01 POLICY INTERVENTIONS FOR HEALTH BEHAVIOR CHANGE

Examines the major theoretical frameworks (e.g., policy streams, advocacy coalition framework, punctuated equilibrium theory, ambiguity-conflict model) relevant to the development, enactment, implementation and evaluation of policy interventions that support health behavior change. Explores the roles of ideas, interests, institutions and key actors in the policy process. Discusses how the environment can be influenced to improve the chances of implementing effective interventions to improve the public’s health. Includes case studies from the areas of tobacco control, alcohol, HIV/AIDS, obesity/physical activity, and other health topics to critically explore the strengths and limitations of policy change theories as they relate to current hot topics in the area of health, behavior and society.