2. Key Concept
The social-ecological model
represents a multifaceted
approach to getting people active.
The social-ecological model is used
to better understand human
behaviour and it’s interactions with
the social and physical
environments and the effect of
policy decisions made by
governments and organisations.
3. Overview
There are many factors that influence a persons
engagement with physical activity programs
Understanding these factors allows programmers to
develop programs that better ‘fit’ the individual
4. Overview
Previous models of physical activity intervention (such as
the Stages of Change model or the “Self Efficacy” model
focused solely on the individual.
Effective physical activity interventions are
multidimensional and understand that not one factor that
influences the individual but many.
5. Overview
The underlying core principles of the social-ecological model
concern the interrelationships between the different levels of
influence (of PA behaviour) on the individual.
The social-ecological model looks at the interrelationships
between the following areas:
The Individual domain
The Social Environment domain
The Physical environment domain
The Policy domain
7. Level 1- The Individual Domain
Is at the center of the model as
ultimately we are trying to
affect a change in physical
activity behaviour of
individuals
8. Level 1- The Individual Domain
At this level, age, gender, self-
efficacy, knowledge, values,
attitudes, beliefs and
preferences are all important
factors
However it has to be
recognised that external
factors will also effect the
individual
9. Level 2: The Social Environment Domain
The first of the external forces
acting on the individual
The influence of people close
to us affect our behaviour
Family, friends, peers and
organisations
10. Level 2: The Social Environment Domain
This domain also includes any
individual, organisation, business
or institution that collectively
comprise the larger societal fabric
Schools, workplaces and
community organisations (such as
sporting clubs) influence our
behaviours in very real ways,
encouraging and supporting active
behaviour.
11. Level 3: The Physical Environment Domain
This domain includes the natural
and man made influences on a
persons ability to be active
It includes things like roads,
parks, public transport, shops,
housing, commercial business
and factories.
These factors may encourage or
discourage physical activity
depending on design and
location.
12. Level 3: The Physical Environment Domain
For people to be able to
participate in a physically active
lifestyle, good urban planning is
required.
This includes good planning of
open spaces for games, dog
parks, jogging/walking and
cycling paths which are safe,
practical and have good lighting
People need easy access and
safety
13. Level 4: The Policy Domain
Policy is defined as an
authoritative decision made by a
local, state or federal government
body.
This domain refers to the policies,
laws and regulations by which we
live.
These policies, laws and
regulations effect our ability to
live a healthy life
Environmental change is included
in this domain
14. Level 4: The Policy Domain
Policies of schools and workplaces that
encourage activity are important in
developing a healthy workforce and
nation
Government policy and funding can do
the following things:
Create physical and natural
environmental change
Create jobs through skills and training
Funding for sports grounds and clubs
Change taxes for sports clubs
