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The Action Scales Model: A conceptual tool to identify key points for action within complex adaptive systems
James D Nobles1, Duncan Radley2, Oliver T Mytton3
1The National Institute for Health Research Applied Research Collaboration West (NIHR ARC West), University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK; Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, NIHR ARC West, 9th Floor, Whitefrairs, Lewins Mead, Bristol BS1 2NT, UK.
Perspectives in Public Health
|May 17, 2021
Summary
Systems thinking is crucial for tackling obesity. The Action Scales Model (ASM) provides a framework to identify and evaluate interventions within complex adaptive systems, promoting more impactful change.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Systems Science
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Obesity is a complex issue driven by interconnected factors within societal systems.
- A coordinated, systems approach involving multiple sectors is essential for effective obesity prevention and management.
- Traditional public health interventions may be insufficient for addressing the multifaceted drivers of obesity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce the Action Scales Model (ASM), a novel tool for conceptualizing and appraising interventions in complex adaptive systems.
- To provide a practical framework for policymakers, practitioners, and evaluators engaged in systems change efforts.
- To offer a structured approach for identifying leverage points within complex systems, building upon existing models.
Main Methods:
- The Action Scales Model (ASM) was developed based on collective expertise and experience with local government stakeholders.
- The ASM conceptualizes interventions at four distinct levels within a system: events, structures, goals, and beliefs.
- The model was refined by aligning with and expanding upon established frameworks like the Intervention Level Framework and Donella Meadows' leverage points.
Main Results:
- The ASM categorizes interventions into four hierarchical levels, with deeper levels offering greater potential for systemic change.
- Deeper intervention levels within the ASM include 'structures,' 'goals,' and 'beliefs,' while the surface level is 'events.'
- The ASM demonstrates utility in supporting public health practice, policy development, and program evaluation.
Conclusions:
- The Action Scales Model (ASM) is a practical tool designed to aid frontline workers in systems change initiatives.
- While demonstrated using obesity, the ASM's principles are applicable to diverse complex adaptive systems and public health challenges.
- The ASM encourages a re-evaluation of systemic dynamics to uncover novel and more effective opportunities for driving change.
Keywords:
complex adaptive systemscomplex interventioncomplexityhealth policyleverage pointssystems scienceMore Related Videos
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