When using the ecological model in a needs assessment, which of the following best exemplifies the approach?

The ecological model emphasizes the multiple levels of influence—individual, interpersonal, organizational, community, and public policy—that affect health behaviors and outcomes. By assessing attitudes, behaviors, policies, and social norms in a community, you are considering the complex interplay of various factors that contribute to health issues. This comprehensive approach aligns with the ecological model’s premise that health is not solely influenced by individual choices but by the broader context in which individuals live and interact.

Assessing attitudes helps to understand the beliefs that drive behavior, while evaluating behaviors provides insight into what community members actually do. Examining policies reveals the regulatory framework influencing health behaviors, and looking at social norms uncovers the shared expectations and rules that can either promote or hinder healthy behaviors within the community. Together, these elements reflect the intertwined nature of individual and collective influences on health in a meaningful way.

This holistic approach is essential for developing effective interventions that address health disparities and facilitate positive change, as it considers the broader social determinants of health and the contexts that shape individual and community health outcomes.