WED-100 - An Analysis of Theoretical Foundations in Health Promotion Practice

Brief Abstract Summary: Examined volume 25 of Health Promotion Practice (2024) to assess how theories, models, and frameworks were utilized. Researchers adapted Painter et al.’s (2008) continuum to guide the review and categorize the theoretical uses as recommended, informed, applied, testing, or building/creating.
Of the 142 articles reviewed, 92 articles incorporated at least one theoretical construct from behavioral or planning/implementation theories. Overall, 65% of authors indicated the use of at least one theoretical construct within their manuscripts. Less than half of these manuscripts (48%) met the applied level of a theory, i.e., the use of at least three constructs for a given theory. Describing the use of theory can aid in the use of theory in practice and refine theories to bolster their overall utility for public health programs.

Detailed abstract description: Theories help guide interventions by providing structured frameworks that explain behavior and inform program design, implementation, and evaluation (NIH, 2018; CNHEO,2020). While theory is essential for designing effective and equitable health promotion programs, its use often varies. In this study, researchers reviewed volume 25 of Health Promotion Practice (2024) to assess how theories, models, and frameworks were utilized. Researchers adapted Painter et al.’s (2008) continuum to guide the review and categorize the theoretical uses as recommended, informed, applied, testing, or building/creating. Researchers also adopted Nilson’s (2015) definitions of implementation theory, model, and framework to inform the review.
Of the 142 articles reviewed, 92 articles incorporated at least one theoretical construct from behavioral or planning/implementation theories. Behavioral theories such as the Health Belief Model, Social Cognitive Theory, and Social Ecological Model were frequently identified, emphasizing constructs such as self-efficacy and perceived barriers. Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) emerged as a central framework, reinforcing the importance of equity-centered, participatory approaches. Overall, 65% of authors indicated the use of at least one theoretical construct within their manuscripts. Less than half of these manuscripts (48%) met the criterion of the applied level of a theory, i.e., the use of at least three constructs for a given theory. While theory was commonly referenced, descriptions of application frequently highlighted the use of only one construct or only recommended the use of a theory. Some of the planning articles did not mention the use of theory. It is unknown if theory was not used or if describing the use of theories was overlooked in the writing of the final manuscripts. Describing the use of theory can help to translate the use of theory for practice as well as refine theories to bolster their overall utility for public health programs.