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Advancing Social Intervention Research Through Program Theory Reconstruction

Year: 2023

Type: article

Abstract: Program theory reconstruction is an often-overlooked aspect of social intervention research. In this paper, we argue that intervention research benefits if the research design is informed by the specific intervention's program theory (i.e., the idea of how the intervention is supposed to lead to the intended outcomes). The purpose of this paper is to offer a comprehensive and accessible guide to program theory reconstruction in research on social interventions and to provide arguments as to how program theory reconstruction can be used to benefit intervention studies. First, we summarize what program theory is and its role in intervention research. Second, we provide a direct “how-to” for researchers, practitioners, and students who may be unfamiliar with the methods of program theory reconstruction but are interested in undertaking a program theory reconstruction. Finally, we conclude with how program theory reconstruction can benefit intervention research.

Source: Research on Social Work Practice

DOI: 10.1177/10497315221149976

Authors: Tina M. Olsson, Sabina Kapetanovic, Katarina Hollertz, Mikaela Starke, Therése Skoog

Institutions: University of Gothenburg, Jönköping University, University West, Stockholm University

Language: English

Topic: Evaluation and Performance Assessment

Subfield: Public Administration

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,250

Funders: Vetenskapsrådet, Göteborgs Universitet, Forskningsrådet om Hälsa, Arbetsliv och Välfärd