Connecting research and policymaking: Implications for theory and practicefrom the Family Impact Seminars

This paper addresses a conundrum that merits scholarly attention-why social scientists' ability to generate high quality research has outpaced their a bility to disseminate research into the policymaking process. The paper des cribes Family Impact Seminars, a series of seminars, briefing reports, and follow-up activities that provide up-to-date, solution-oriented information to state policymakers. In support of the proposed "three-communities" theo ry, the utilization of research in policymaking appears to depend upon seve ral pragmatic practices and procedures, ten which are detailed in the paper .