Social and Behavioral Research

Social and behavioral research explores how and why people behave the way they do in certain situations and how this might impact human health. Researchers look at individuals or at larger groups, such as families, communities, and societies to find ways to solve social problems and improve health.

​

“Behavioral” is a term that covers a lot of ground. It refers to what people do, as well as what drives them to do things, and it involves psychological processes like emotion. “Social,” on the other hand, reflects how individuals interact with each other: in small groups, families, and communities, as well as within populations and in society. Behavioral and social sciences research helps predict, prevent, and manage illness — in individuals and in whole populations. This research also helps people change their behaviors, understand treatments, and learn how to stick with them. Society’s role is significant, too: access to health care affects decision making and behavior." - NIH.gov

​

Efforts to understand behaviors can lead to important insight into many diseases and conditions that impact human health. Learning people’s narratives — where they are in life, the language they use, what motivates them, and how they interact with the world around them can lead to better informed care and treatment.