The Use of Theory

Using a theory in the development of a public health campaign is important for a variety of reasons. First, it helps to answer why and how people behave the way they do and what motivates them to change. Second, it guides you in developing a campaign by helping you understand what issues are critical to address. Third, it guides you in determining what strategies are most effective to reach multiple populations. Finally, it serves as a guide to individual behavior and it can help you determine what type of behavior change you are looking to achieve and how your public health campaign can influence that change (Glanz, Rimer & Viswanath, 2015).

For this Discussion, consider why theory is important in public health practice and how you might apply theory to the development of your public health campaign.

Reference:
Glanz, K., Rimer, B. K., & Viswanath, K. (Eds.). (2015). Health behavior: Theory, research, and practice (5th ed.). San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.

With these thoughts in mind:

By Day 3, post a brief explanation of why theory is important in the practice of public health. Then explain two ways you will incorporate theory into your public health campaign and why.