In this paper, Signild Vallgårda (SV) investigates why a ban against the use of industrially produced trans fatty acids in foods was introduced in Denmark as the first country in the world. SV correctly states that our part of, and activity in that process, represent a combination of scientific work and 'policymaking'. We, however object to some…

Considers the proper or effective roles that behavioral scientists can play in the policy domain and the problems and disadvantages inherent in assuming these roles. (Author/CMG)

Meta-analysis, one strategy nurses can use to influence public policy in health care, can amplify effects too small to observe in single or small studies, bring cost data to the fore, and highlight ramifications of local interest to policy- makers. (SK)

To ensure that its studies are relevant to policy making, the National Board on Educational Testing and Public Policy (NBETPP) follows certain guidelines. These are discussed in the hope that they will make the work of NBETPP more understandable and useful. The first guideline is that to be policy relevant, research must take account of the…

This paper explores the channels by which research data make their way into public discussion, policy, and practice. The thesis is that scientific knowledge tends to concentrate with the already knowledgeable, and a way to hasten the diffusion process is needed. (MT)

Social policy in gerontology has emanated from research based on the majority population. Policy restructuring based on diverse populations is needed to reflect the growing diversity of elderly people. (SK)

Rather than questioning equal educational opportunities for disabled students, the authors suggest that research and curriculum development should focus on three areas: criteria of educational validity to demonstrate appropriateness; variance in learning associated with specific student characteristics and interventions; and valid curricular…

Contends assessing new findings in understanding nature of associations between teenage childbearing and social or reproductive disadvantage and incorporating them into appropriate policy debate and development is a challenge complicated by failure of those translating them for practitioners to do so accurately. Discusses examples of such…

Current psychological research data do not support the Social Security Administration's (SSA) decision regarding eligibility for psychiatric disability benefits. Structured work evaluation--a procedure allowed but not endorsed by SSA policies--is the best predictor of a person's ability to work. (CMG)

The linkage between policy research and policy formation can be strengthened through the use of qualitative methods. Currently, the linkage between policy research and policy decision making is tenuous; there are differences in philosophy, function, self-definition, and criteria by which success is measured. Although research cannot dictate the…

The role of industry in the planning and management of research is discussed. It is suggested that university research should be ahead of industry and industry should not try to influence academic programs in the basic sciences. (Author/SF)

The dimensions of the social problem of street children in developing countries is being recognized and the need for social action is being addressed. The tone of recent policy papers, however, is one of sympathy rather than of empathy. This sympathetic stance is prone to distortion and misrepresentation and may result in social action which is…

The author takes the position that federal support for basic research should be increased. The suggestion is made that the National Institute of Education sponsor a mapping of fields of inquiry in education and endeavor to bring patterns of support in line with ongoing inquiry in education. Increased support for new research and new researchers in…

According to this acceptance speech delivered by the recipient of the 1987 Kurt Lewin Award, social psychological contributions should be placed within an interdisciplinary framework and an institutional structure in order to make it more relevant for public policy. Recommendations for doing this are offered. (BJV)

Points out that educational research has more critics than supporters. Until researchers convince lawmakers, educators, and taxpayers that research is useful, support for research will not be forthcoming. The constraints on and accomplishments of the Office of Educational Research and Improvement are discussed. (VM)