What is the relationship between social science research and public health policy, particularly in the developing world? This question is at the heart of this collection of essays drawn from Rockefeller Foundation-sponsored conferences at Harvard University. The book examines the theoretical impact of social science research as well as specific case studies of successful applied research.Beginning with a section on broad issues and the conceptualization of behavioral change, the volume then examines the anti-smoking movement in the United States; measures to prevent and control HIV infection in the United Kingdom, Sweden, and the United States; anti-malaria measures; and the application of dietary management and lot quality assurance sampling to public health issues in Peru. The volume concludes with a section re-examining ways social science research can have an impact on improving public health. Scholars and researchers as well as policy makers involved with health research and international development will find this collection particularly valuable.

This collection examines the theoretical impact of social science research as well as specific case studies where social science research has been successfully applied to public health issues.

PrefaceIntroduction: Addressing the Health Transition Research Agenda: Can We Connect Findings with Action?The Conceptualization of Behavioral ChangeAn Anthropological Approach to Social Science Research on the Health TransitionBehavioral Medicine, Health Behavior, and Health Maintenance Strategies: Applicability to Disease Prevention in the Developing WorldResearch Possibilities on Facilitating the Health Care TransitionCase StudiesThe Rise and Fall of the Cigarette: A Brief History of the Antismoking Movement in the United StatesUsing Social Science to Prevent and Control HIV Infection: The Experience of Britain, Sweden, and the United StatesThe Malaria Transition and the Role of Social Science ResearchDietary Management of Diarrhea in PeruAssessment of Health Program Performance to Improve Management: Utilization of Lot Quality Assurance Sampling to Increase Immunization Coverage in PeruSocial Science Research and the Improvement of HealthHealth and Development: What Can Research Contribute?Potential of for Social Science Research to Inform and Influence the Delivery of Health Care in Lesser Developed CountriesThe Health Transition and Social Science Research: A Summary of Workshop ProceedingsIndex