title: An ecological process model of systems change.
abstract: In June 2007 the American Journal of Community Psychology published a special issue focused on theories, methods and interventions for systems change which included calls from the editors and authors for theoretical advancement in this field. We propose a conceptual model of systems change that integrates familiar and fundamental community psychology principles (succession, interdependence, cycling of resources, adaptation) and accentuates a process orientation. To situate our framework we offer a definition of systems change and a brief review of the ecological perspective and principles. The Ecological Process Model of Systems Change is depicted, described and applied to a case example of policy driven systems level change in publicly funded social programs. We conclude by identifying salient implications for thinking and action which flow from the Model.
authors.affiliation: School of Nursing and the National Collaborating Centre for Methods and Tools, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada. peirson@mcmaster.ca
authors.forename: Leslea J
authors.initials: LJ
authors.lastname: Peirson
authors.forename: Katherine M
authors.initials: KM
authors.lastname: Boydell
authors.forename: H Bruce
authors.initials: HB
authors.lastname: Ferguson
authors.forename: Lorraine E
authors.initials: LE
authors.lastname: Ferris
mesh_terms: D019058:Community Networks / Q000458:organization & administration; D004059:Diffusion of Innovation; D006291:Health Policy; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000458:organization & administration; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D012922:Social Change