On-Line Lesson

DH450 : The Class : Introduction : Theory : On-Line Lesson

On-Line Lesson: Theory

After learning about theories, you will be asked to select and apply a theory for each of the topics (research and health promotion) you selected previously.

	Idea	Significance	Theory
Research
Public Health

For example: Health conditions have multiple causes. Dental caries is influenced by individual behaviors (i.e. diet, oral hygiene) attitudes and knowledge; the environment; policies; and access to dental care. An understanding of how these factors interact and how interventions can address these factors will help us to make positive changes. A good theory guides our decision about where to focus our interventions.

What is theory?

Theory is an organized body of information that explains a phenomenon.
It explains the interrelationship between variables.
It presents a systematic view and facilitates the explanation or prediction of situations.
It provides a conceptual framework for testing explained phenomena by means of the scientific method.
When processes occur repeatedly as explained by theory, the theory becomes fact.
If processes do not follow the theory, the theory is rejected or modified.

For example:
We once believed in the "Non-Specific Plaque Theory" which stated that gingival inflammation and periodontal disease were caused by having excess amounts of plaque present on teeth.

But, clinicians noticed that some people had LOTS of plaque and NO disease!
So…the theory was rejected and a new one was adopted in its place.

Today we accept the "Specific Plaque Theory" which states that periodontal disease is caused by specific organisms within the plaque…it is the quality not the quantity of plaque that makes a difference.

Why are theories and models important in Research

Why are theories and models important in Health Promotion?

Theory:

Helps us see the BIG picture
Directs our research strategy (what to look for)
Provides the structure from which a research agenda grows
Allows others outside the profession to understand the logic of our science
Promotes long-term, longitudinal investigation
Promotes research that builds on itself rather than being an end in itself
Promotes research that will be of long-term use to the profession
Provides a model from which other researchers can build
Helps explain outcomes

Effective health promotion depends on an understanding of behaviors and environmental contexts.

Theory can help explain the nature and dynamics of health behavior, the influences on behavior and the processes involved in changing the behavior.

A good theory helps us decide how to start a project or intervention.

Once you have finished the lesson you should:

Go on to Learn About Health Theories
or
Go back to Theory

E-mail Tricia Moore at Tricia.Moore@nau.edu
or call (520) 523-4012