Embracing complexity: A transdisciplinary conceptual framework for understanding behavior change in the context of development-focused interventions. (February 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lambe, Fiona; Ran, Ylva; Jürisoo, Marie; Holmlid, Stefan; Muhoza, Cassilde; Johnson, Oliver; Osborne, Matthew
• Is Part Of: World development. Volume 126(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-02
• Subjects: Behavior change -- Development intervention design -- Service design -- Complex adaptive systems; Economic history -- 1990- -- Periodicals; Economic assistance -- Developing countries -- Periodicals; 330.9
• DOI: 10.1016/j.worlddev.2019.104703
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0305-750X

Abstract

Highlights: Integrating service design and behavioral insights can inform robust development interventions in complex adaptive systems (Datta et al., 2015; Datta & Mullainathan, 2014 ). The framework can be used to identify and sequence behavior change techniques to improve intervention effectiveness. Actor journey mapping is useful for visualizing different phases of an intervention as experienced by the target user. The framework can help identify behavioral archetypes, so that interventions can be tailored to the needs of specific groups. Abstract: Many interventions that aim to improve the livelihoods of vulnerable people in low-income settings fail because the behavior of the people intended to benefit is not well understood and /or not reflected in the design of interventions. Methods for understanding and situating human behavior in the context of development interventions tend to emphasize experimental approaches to objectively isolate key drivers of behavior. However, such methods often do not account for the importance of contextual factors and the wider system. In this paper we propose a conceptual framework to support intervention design that links behavioral insights with service design, a branch of the creative field of design. To develop the framework, we use three case studies conducted in Kenya and Zambia focusing on the uptake of new technologies and services by individuals and households. We demonstrate how the framework can be useful for mapping individuals' experiences of a new technology or service and, based on this, identify key parameters to support lasting behavior change. The framework reflects how behavior change takes place in the context of complex social-ecological systems – that change over time, and in which a diverse range of actors operate at different levels – with the aim of supporting the design and delivery of more robust development-oriented interventions.