More Than a Framework? Applying Socioecological Models Within Mental Health and Community Psychology Inquiries

Publication: Canadian Journal of Community Mental Health
18 November 2024

Abstract

Socioecological models are commonly used by researchers, practitioners, and educators in mental health because these models acknowledge the environmental influences of well-being and help to inform the development of multipronged intervention strategies. However, their versatility and variety of uses in mental health and community psychology have presented challenges for researchers in defining the boundaries and acceptability of socioecological approaches. In this commentary, we provide an overview of socioecological approaches, describe some common applications, provide guidance for investigators seeking to use these models, and call for greater transparency in reporting to enhance its use in community psychology and mental health inquiries.

Résumé

Les modèles socio-écologiques sont couramment utilisés par les chercheurs, les praticiens et les éducateurs en santé mentale parce que ces modèles tiennent compte des influences environnementales du bien-être et aident à éclairer le développement de stratégies d’intervention à plusieurs volets. Cependant, leur polyvalence et la variété de leurs utilisations en santé mentale et en psychologie communautaire ont présenté des défis aux chercheurs pour définir les limites et l’acceptabilité des approches socio-écologiques. Dans ce commentaire, nous donnons un aperçu des approches socio-écologiques, décrivons certaines applications courantes, fournissons des conseils aux enquêteurs qui cherchent à utiliser ces modèles et appelons à une plus grande transparence dans les rapports pour améliorer leur utilisation dans les enquêtes sur la psychologie communautaire et la santé mentale.

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Information & Authors

Information

Published In

cover image Canadian Journal of Community Mental Health
Canadian Journal of Community Mental Health
e-First
Pages: 1 - 9

History

Version of record online: 18 November 2024

Key Words

  1. mental health
  2. social ecology
  3. community psychology
  4. health behaviour
  5. mental illness

Mots-clés

  1. santé mentale
  2. écologie sociale
  3. psychologie communautaire
  4. comportements de santé
  5. maladie mentale

Authors

Affiliations

Abhinand Thaivalappil [email protected]
Ian Young
Toronto Metropolitan University
Andrew Papadopoulos

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