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APPENDIX D:
THE SOCIO-ECOLOGICAL MODEL
OVERVIEW
The socio-ecological model is a multi-level framework that allows us to consider the different contexts in
which risk and protective factors exist. The model also allows us to examine how contexts interact with
one another and to choose prevention strategies that operate at multiple levels in order to achieve the
greatest impact.
ABOUT THE MODEL
The theory behind the socio-ecological model is that an individual does
not exist in a vacuum and that her/his behavior both influences and is
influenced by the surrounding environment, which consists of various
levels. Each level operates within and is influenced by the next level.
1
This
reciprocal relationship and dynamic interaction helps us to understand
human development and behavior because different risk and protective
factors operate within each level.
2
The four levels
3
are:
INDIVIDUAL. Includes factors specific to the individual, such as age, education, income,
health, and psychosocial problems, which may correspond with substance use. For example,
undergraduate students who exhibit poor self-regulation, impaired control, and impulsiveness are
more likely to binge drink.
4
RELATIONSHIP. Includes an individual’s closest social circle—family members, peers,
teachers, and other close relationships—that contribute to their range of experience and may
influence their behavior. For example, youth who affiliate with deviant peers are more likely to use
marijuana.
5
COMMUNIT Y. Includes the settings in which social relationships occur, such as schools,
workplaces, and neighborhoods. For example, living in neighborhoods with chronically high rates
of disorganization, crime, and unemployment is associated with higher risk for substance abuse.
6
SOCIET Y. Includes broad societal factors, such as social and cultural norms. Other significant
factors operating at this level include the health, economic, educational, and social policies that
contribute to economic and/or social inequalities between populations.
1
Bronfenbrenner, U. (1977). Toward an experimental ecology of human development. American Psychologist, 32(7), 513-531.
2
Blum, R. W., McNeely, C., & Nonnemaker, J. (2002). Vulnerability, risk, and protection. Journal of Adolescent Health, 31(1 Suppl), 28-
3
Terminology adapted from Bronfenbrenner (1977).
4
Neal, D., & Carey, K. (2007). Association between alcohol intoxication and alcohol related problems: An event analysis. Psychology of
Addictive Behaviors, 21(2), 194-204.
5
Hampson, S.E., Andrews, J.A., & Barckley, M. (2008). Childhood predictors of adolescent marijuana use: Early sensation-seeking, deviant
peer affiliation, and social images. Addictive Behaviors, 33(9) 1140 -1147.
6
Institute of Medicine, O’Connell, M. E., Boat, T. F., Warner, K. E., & National Research Council. (2009). Preventing mental, emotional, and
behavioral disorders among young people: Progress and possibilities. Washington, DC: National Academies Press.
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