TABLE 6.

Examples of basic methods at the environmental level (adapted from Bartholomew et al., ²⁰¹¹, pp. 347–348)

Methods and definitions	Parameters for use	Examples
Participatory problem solving
Diagnosing the problem, generating potential solutions, developing priorities, making an action plan, and obtaining feedback after implementing the plan.	Requires willingness by the health promoter or convener to accept the participants as equals and as having a high level of influence; requires target group to possess appropriate motivation and skills.	A health promotion consultant assists employees of a small company to identify the level and sources of stress and develop a plan with management to address and monitor work stress.
Advocacy and lobbying
Arguing and mobilizing resources on behalf of a particular change; giving aid to a cause; active support for a cause or position.	Form of advocacy must match style and tactics of the people, communities or organizations represented, and the nature of the issue; includes policy advocacy; often tailored to a specific environmental agent.	Members of the American Public Health Association use the organization's action alert system to contact their legislators to urge them to vote for pending health care reform legislation.
Technical assistance
Providing technical means to achieve desired behavior.	Nature of technical assistance will vary by environmental level but must fit needs, culture, and resources of recipient.	A health department liaison helps a community health center design recruitment procedures, training, and supervisory guidelines as they establish a new lay health worker program.