Community Engagement
What does “community organizing” mean in public health?
Bringing community members together to identify shared concerns, build collective power, and take action to improve health and social conditions
What is the purpose of a program rationale?
To justify why a program is needed and to persuade stakeholders, funders, or decision-makers that it should be implemented
What is the definition of a “need” in public health planning?
The gap between the current situation and a more desirable or optimal condition (e.g., what is versus what should be).
Theory is predictive. What is a planning model?
A planning model is a step-by-step framework that guides the design, implementation, and evaluation of programs (e.g., PRECEDE-PROCEED).
Why is cultural tailoring important in program design?
It ensures the program respects and reflects the values, beliefs, and practices of the target population, making it more relevant, acceptable, and effective.
What kind of data strengthens a problem statement?
Epidemiological data (incidence, prevalence, mortality), or qualitative evidence that shows the scope and urgency of the issue
Name two methods for conducting a needs assessment?
Surveys, focus groups, key informant interviews, community forums, or review of existing data.
What are theoretical constructs? Give one example.
Constructs are the building blocks of a theory—key concepts that explain behavior. Example: perceived susceptibility (HBM) or self-efficacy (SCT).
Name one difference between community engagement and community outreach.
Name one consequence of a weak program rationale.
Difficulty securing funding, low stakeholder support, or poor program alignment with actual community needs.
Why is it important to assess both needs and assets?
Needs identify problems to be addressed, while assets highlight existing strengths and resources to build upon—both are essential for effective program design
Name one key construct from the Health Belief Model.
Perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, cues to action, or self-efficacy.
Give an example of a “stakeholder” in a maternal health program
Pregnant women, midwives, community health workers, hospital administrators, policymakers, or advocacy groups (anyone with an interest in maternal health outcomes).
What elements must be included in a strong rationale?
Evidence of the problem, significance/impact, alignment with priorities, and a compelling case for action (why now, why here)
What’s the difference between formal and informal data collection methods?
Which theory explains behavior change through readiness stages?
The Transtheoretical Model (Stages of Change).
True or False: Engagement is only needed at the beginning of a program.
Engagement should happen at all stages—planning, implementation, and evaluation.
Why is it important to connect a rationale to broader public health priorities?
It shows alignment with national, state, or local goals, making the program more credible and more likely to receive funding or policy support.
What question does a needs assessment answer about subgroup differences?
“Which groups are most affected or at greatest risk?”—it helps identify disparities among subpopulations.
No single theory is best—what guides your choice of theory in program design?
The health problem, target population, and context—choose the theory that best fits the behavior and setting.