Public policy-making and research information

Abstract

Discusses the types of information that behavioral researchers might provide to public policymakers and how it might be delivered in order to shape public policy. The stages of policymaking, including agenda formation, policy adoption, policy implementation, and policy review, are described. Seven types of research information important in agenda formation and policy adoption are then analyzed. These include information about the dimensions of an issue, number of people affected, relative standing of an issue, interests of those involved, controlling variables, program alternatives, and program acceptability. Methods of communicating research information to policymakers are discussed.