Human behaviour plays a key role in health, wellbeing, and health outcomes. Health-related behaviours are embedded in complex individual and social contexts; addressing them requires people-centred, evidence-based methods that advance resilience, equity and innovation. In this workshop we address how behavioural and social science helps to 1) understand what drives health behaviours, 2) implement effective interventions and 3) evaluate the impact of interventions in public health.

Applying behavioural science is a multidisciplinary approach which delivers measurable impact through data-driven and people-centred social innovation. Simple tools can help put behavioural science at the forefront of public health planning. For example, by always asking the question what (behaviour) needs to be done where and when (context), by whom (target audience) and why (determinants)? The answers to these questions help to design interventions to improve health outcomes, resilience, and equity.

Objectives

The workshop has three objectives. Participants will:

1. Get familiar with the behavioural and social science approach, including key theoretical models and frameworks.
2. Understand the steps of the behavioural and social science approach in the context of public health.
3. Practice the use of behavioural and social science models, approaches and tools for specific public health topics.

Target audience

Public health professionals who want to learn more about behavioural and cultural insights. No prior knowledge of the application of behavioural and social sciences to health is required to attend.

About the training

This training offers a variety of plenary presentations, facilitated discussions, case examples, and group exercises.

General overview of the programme