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Understanding the LiveLighter® obesity prevention policy processes: An investigation using political science and systems thinking

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  • Clarke, Brydie
  • Swinburn, Boyd
  • Sacks, Gary

Abstract

The health and economic burden associated with overweight and obesity warrants comprehensive policy action; however, to date, there has been limited policy progress globally. This study sought to advance obesity prevention policy research and practice by applying theories of the policy process to study decision-making processes involved in the adoption of the contentious LiveLighter® social marketing campaign by the Victorian government in Australia. Through analysis of documents and interviews with policy makers, this qualitative study aimed to gain a better understanding of the dynamic influences on policy decision-making. Multiple theories of the policy process were used to elucidate policy drivers and Causal Loop Diagramming methods were used to illustrate the LiveLighter® policy decision-making systems. Findings highlighted a number of key influences including: various external events, evidence of the problem and intervention effectiveness, resistance from various stakeholders and the political capabilities of central policy makers. The policy systems map provided insight into the difficulties experienced by policy actors in achieving policy change, as well as to develop a conceptual framework for identifying potential leverage points to influence future obesity prevention policy decisions. Together the findings can inform future advocacy efforts for improving the implementation of obesity prevention policy action.

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  • Clarke, Brydie & Swinburn, Boyd & Sacks, Gary, 2020. "Understanding the LiveLighter® obesity prevention policy processes: An investigation using political science and systems thinking," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 246(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:socmed:v:246:y:2020:i:c:s027795361930752x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2019.112757
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    1. Sang-Dol Kim, 2021. "Complementary and Integrative Health Approaches for Weight Management in the Obese Population: The 2018 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(15), pages 1-10, August.
    2. Brydie Clarke & Janelle Kwon & Boyd Swinburn & Gary Sacks, 2021. "Understanding the dynamics of obesity prevention policy decision-making using a systems perspective: A case study of Healthy Together Victoria," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 16(1), pages 1-23, January.
    3. Silvio Cristiano & Samuele Zilio, 2021. "Whose Health in Whose City? A Systems Thinking Approach to Support and Evaluate Plans, Policies, and Strategies for Lasting Urban Health," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(21), pages 1-19, November.

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