The Social-Ecological

ModelA multifaceted Approach

Key Concept

The social-ecological model represents a multifaceted approach to getting people active.

The social-ecological model is used to better understand human behaviour and it’s interactions with the social and physical environments and the effect of policy decisions made by governments and organisations.

Overview

There are many factors that influence a persons engagement with physical activity programs

Understanding these factors allows programmers to develop programs that better ‘fit’ the individual

Overview

Previous models of physical activity intervention (such as the Stages of Change model or the “Self Efficacy” model focused solely on the individual.

Effective physical activity interventions are multidimensional and understand that not one factor that influences the individual but many.

Overview

The underlying core principles of the social-ecological model concern the interrelationships between the different levels of influence (of PA behaviour) on the individual.

The social-ecological model looks at the interrelationships between the following areas: The Individual domain The Social Environment domain The Physical environment domain The Policy domain

The Social-Ecological Model

Level 1- The Individual Domain

Is at the center of the model as ultimately we are trying to affect a change in physical activity behaviour of individuals

Level 1- The Individual Domain

At this level, age, gender, self-efficacy, knowledge, values, attitudes, beliefs and preferences are all important factors

However it has to be recognised that external factors will also effect the individual

Level 2: The Social Environment Domain

The first of the external forces acting on the individual

The influence of people close to us affect our behaviour

Family, friends, peers and organisations

Level 2: The Social Environment Domain

This domain also includes any individual, organisation, business or institution that collectively comprise the larger societal fabric

Schools, workplaces and community organisations (such as sporting clubs) influence our behaviours in very real ways, encouraging and supporting active behaviour.

Level 3: The Physical Environment Domain

This domain includes the natural and man made influences on a persons ability to be active

It includes things like roads, parks, public transport, shops, housing, commercial business and factories.

These factors may encourage or discourage physical activity depending on design and location.

Level 3: The Physical Environment Domain

For people to be able to participate in a physically active lifestyle, good urban planning is required.

This includes good planning of open spaces for games, dog parks, jogging/walking and cycling paths which are safe, practical and have good lighting

People need easy access and safety

Level 4: The Policy Domain

Policy is defined as an authoritative decision made by a local, state or federal government body.

This domain refers to the policies, laws and regulations by which we live.

These policies, laws and regulations effect our ability to live a healthy life

Environmental change is included in this domain

Level 4: The Policy Domain

Policies of schools and workplaces that encourage activity are important in developing a healthy workforce and nation

Government policy and funding can do the following things: Create physical and natural

environmental change Create jobs through skills

and training Funding for sports grounds

and clubs Change taxes for sports

clubs