Theory in a Nutshell: A Practical Guide to Health Promotion Theories / Edition 2

by Don Nutbeam, E Harris, Elizabeth Harris

Overview

The use of theory in the planning and implementation of health promotion programs will more reliably produce positive outcomes. Following on from the success of the first edition, Theory in a Nutshell 2nd edition explores the main theoretical concepts and models in health promotion and explains the significance, practical application and impact of different theories on the individual, community and organisation. This edition includes concise reviews of established theories, such as social cognitive theory and the health belief model, as well as expanding on new developments in the field including evidence-based policy making and health impact assessment. Thoroughly revised and updated, the book maintains the accessible style suitable for public health practitioners, health promotion and health education specialists, epidemiologists and social policy makers, as well as students of public health and health promotion.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780074713327
Publisher:	McGraw-Hill Companies, The
Publication date:	04/28/2004
Edition description:	Older Edition
Pages:	96
Product dimensions:	5.00(w) x 8.00(h) x 0.19(d)

About the Author

Don Nutbeam is Pro vice-Chancellor and Head of the College of Health Sciences at Sydney University, Sydney, Australia.

Elizabeth Harris is Director of the Centre for Health Equity Training, Research and Evaluation at the University of New South Wales.

Table of Contents

	Preface	vii
	Acknowledgments	ix
	Introduction	xi
Chapter 1	Theory	1
	What is a theory?	1
	The use of theory	2
	Single theory or multiple theories?	6
	Further reading	9
Chapter 2	Theories on health behaviour and health behaviour change: individual characteristics	10
	The health belief model	10
	The theories of reasoned action and planned behaviour	14
	The transtheoretical (stages of change) model	16
	Social cognitive theory	19
	Summary	22
	Further reading	23
Chapter 3	Theories on change in communities and communal action for health	25
	Diffusion of innovation theory	26
	Community organisation and community building	30
	Summary	36
	Further reading	37
Chapter 4	Models for communication to bring about behaviour change	39
	Communication-behaviour change model	39
	Social marketing	42
	Summary	47
	Further reading	47
Chapter 5	Models for change in organisations and for the creation of health-supportive organisational practice	49
	Theories of organisational change	50
	Models of intersectoral action	53
	Summary	58
	Further reading	59
Chapter 6	Models for the development of healthy public policy	61
	A framework for making healthy public policy	61
	Evidence-based policy making to promote health	64
	Impact assessment and health impact assessment	69
	Summary	73
	Further reading	73
	Conclusion: Theory in practice	75
	Index	77

Editorial Reviews

Reviewer: Vicki Ann Moss, DNSc, MS, BSN, RN (University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh)
Description: This is a revision of a book that explores the main theoretical concepts and theories related to health promotion and explains the impact and practical implication of these theories on individuals, communities, and organizations. The previous edition was published in 1999.
Purpose: This book is specifically designed for health promotion practitioners and students, providing an overview of the most influential theories and models that have and are guiding the practice of health promotion. The authors believe that the use of theory helps practitioners provide a better fit when designing a health promotion program for a specific health problem.
Audience: It is intended for public health practitioners, health promotion specialists, and students. The authors are internationally recognized leaders in the field.
Features: This handbook begins with a definition of theory and its use in health promotion planning and evaluation. The information is reinforced with a pictorial version of the health promotion planning and evaluation cycle: problem identification, solution generation, resource mobilization, implementation, impact assessment, intermediate outcome assessment, outcome assessment, problem redefinition. Four theories are then discussed related to characteristics of individuals and behavior change: Health Belief Model, Theories of Reasoned Action and Planned Behavior, The Transtheoretical Model, and Social Cognitive Theory. Three theories are discussed that guide communities in health planning: Diffusion of Innovation Theory, Community Organization, and Community Building. Next, Communication-Behavior Change Theory and Social Marketing Theory are discussed as theories to guide communication of health messages. The book concludes with models for the development of healthy public policy.
Assessment: This is a very useful guide for busy practitioners who want a concise, accessible resource of theories for health promotion. Each theory is followed by a commentary discussing its strengths, weaknesses, and practical use. Each chapter ends with a bibliography of further readings. Tables and figures throughout further enhance understanding. This edition includes revisions and updates to all sections as well as new sections on community organization and community building, evidence-based policy making, and health impact assessment.

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