Discussion 2: Connecting Theory and Research
In the early 1970s, the technological landscape looked much different than it does now. Cable television
was a recent innovation, and one computer could fill a large room. The Internet was in its infancy. Fast
forward to the early 21st century, where it can be difficult to keep up with technological advances, and the
Internet dominates many aspects of life. Yet, many of the health behavior theories discussed in this course
had already been developed well before the 1990s; very little has changed foundationally. This makes it of
paramount importance to be well versed in the seminal theories and to understand how to apply them when
conducting research and building interventions now and in the future.
For this Discussion, select a theory that interests you and that you might use to conduct research in the
future. Consider your future interests with regard to your dissertation or your current or future role in public
health.
With these thoughts in mind:
Post a brief description of a community health education theory that you might utilize in conducting further
research and explain why it interests you. Then, explain two ways information from this course might be
applied to your dissertation research or your future role as a scholar-practitioner in public health. Be
specific, and use examples to illustrate your points.
Be sure to support your postings and responses to your colleagues’ postings with specific references to the
Learning Resources and the current literature.
References
Glanz, K., Rimer, B. K., & Viswanath, K. (Eds.). (2015). Health behavior: Theory, research, and practice
(5th ed.). San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.
• Chapter 10, “Social Support and Health”
• Chapter 18, “Introduction to Using Theory in Research and Practice”
Glasgow, R. E., & Emmons, K. M. (2007). How can we increase translation of research into practice?
Types of evidence needed. Annual Review of Public Health, 28, 413–433.
Annual Review of Public Health Volume 28 by Glasgow, R.E., & Emmons, K.M. Copyright 2007 by
ANNUAL REVIEWS, INC. Reprinted by permission of ANNUAL REVIEWS, INC. via the Copyright
Clearance Center.