Determinants of Health Policy Impact: A Theoretical Framework

Rütten A, Lüschen G, von Lengerke T, Abel T, Kannas L, Rodriguez Diaz JA, Vinck J, van der Zee J (2003)


Publication Language: English

Publication Type: Journal article, Original article

Publication year: 2003

Journal

Publisher: Springer Verlag (Germany)

Book Volume: 48

Pages Range: 293-300

DOI: 10.1007/s00038-003-2118-3

Abstract

This paper addresses the role of policy and evidence in health promotion. The concept of von Wright’s ”logic of events” is introduced and applied to health policy impact analysis. According to von Wright (1976), human action can be explai- ned by a restricted number of determinants: wants, abilities, duties, and opportunities. The dynamics of action result from changes in opportunities (logic of events). Applied to the policymaking process, the present model explains personal wants as subordinated to political goals. Abilities of individual policy makers are part of organisational resources. Also, personal duties are subordinated to institutional obligations. Opportunities are mainly related to political context and public support. The present analysis suggests that policy deter- minants such as concrete goals, sufficient resources and public support may be crucial for achieving an intended behaviour change on the population level, while other policy determi- nants, e.g., personal commitment and organisational capaci- ties, may especially relate to the policy implementation pro- cess. The paper concludes by indicating ways in which future research using this theoretical framework might contribute to health promotion practice for improved health outcomes across populations. 

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APA:

Rütten, A., Lüschen, G., von Lengerke, T., Abel, T., Kannas, L., Rodriguez Diaz, J.A.,... van der Zee, J. (2003). Determinants of Health Policy Impact: A Theoretical Framework. Sozial- und Präventivmedizin, 48, 293-300. https://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s00038-003-2118-3

MLA:

Rütten, Alfred, et al. "Determinants of Health Policy Impact: A Theoretical Framework." Sozial- und Präventivmedizin 48 (2003): 293-300.

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