From research to social improvement: Understanding theories of intervention

Social science research can inform the complex and uncertain work of moving toward effective social change on three levels: by describing and analyzin g the problems that practitioners confront, by identifying better outcomes for individuals and society, and by illuminating strategies of intervention that practitioners can use to move toward better outcomes. This article of fers a conceptual framework for analyzing strategies of intervention, which the author uses to examine U.S. mental health policy between 1948 and 1963 . In this case, strong understanding of intervention strategies proved very useful to practitioners attempting to make major social changes in the fac e of overwhelming obstacles. The example shows that understanding intervent ion requires different social science tools and ideas than understanding so cial problems. It also shows that social scientists and practitioners alike may find it valuable to think more systematically about intervention.