Ecosocial theory provides health professionals with an opportunity to understand why populations react biologically to a social condition. It is these interactions between biology and social conditions that can contribute to an inequitable distribution of ill health and disease.
Following the tenets of ecosocial theory, health professionals have developed a framework to which health issues can be applied that is beneficial in devising new approaches for promoting positive health outcomes called the Socio-Ecological Model (SEM).
The SEM is an organizing framework that health professionals can use to understand health issues and in planning effective interventions. Although multiple versions of the SEM have been developed, they have in common the concept of multilevel systems of mutual influence and interaction, moving from the individual level through linkages to larger social networks that include the family, community, environment, social institutions, and government.
In this course, you will be introduced to the formulation of the model as proposed by McLeroy, Bibeau, Steckler, & Glanz, 1988). This model is organized around five hierarchical levels of influence: 1) interpersonal factors, 2) interpersonal processes and relations with primary social groups, 3) institutional factors, 4) community factors, and 5) public policy. As you engage in public health practice, applying the SEM to health issues will help you plan and develop interventions to affect positive health outcomes.
For this Assignment, refer to the Course Announcements area to determine which article your Instructor has assigned for this quarter. Review the article and consider how you might apply each level of the SEM to the health issue described.
Note: In grading every required Assignment, your Instructor uses an Assignment rubric, located in the Course Information area. Review the rubric prior to completing your Assignment.
The Assignment (1-2 pages)
Develop a visual representation of the SEM information described in your article using the example provided in your Learning Resources as a model.
Explain how applying the SEM to the health issue helps inform public health practice.