Table 1 Elements forming theories of the policy process (Adapted from [37])
Theory | Scope | Level of analysis | Relationships among key concepts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Multiple Streams Approach | Policy choices under condition of ambiguity | System (implicit) with focus on policy actors coupling the streams | Three independent streams that come together during ‘policy windows’ of opportunity which significantly increases the chance of policy adoption |
2 | Punctuated Equilibrium Theory | Political system usually in stable state punctuated by periodic major change | System (implicit) | Factors limiting change or generating incrementalism and factors leading to major change |
3 | Social Construction Framework | Target populations and policy dynamics | System (implicit) | Social construction of target groups influences policy agenda and policy rationales |
4 | Advocacy Coalition Framework | Interactions of advocacy coalitions influencing policy change | Coalitions and policy subsystems | Factors influencing formation of coalitions, policy change and policy learning |
5 | Narrative Policy Framework | How narratives influence policy agendas, policy decisions, policy change and public opinions | Micro (individual), Meso (coalitions, institutions) Macro (Societal) | Influence of narratives on public opinion/mood, coalition strategies, policy making and learning |
6 | Institutional Analysis and Development Framework | How institutional arrangements are devised to solve collective action problems and outcomes of these arrangements | “Action arena” any social space where individuals interact | At the theory level: Factors and principles that lead to collective action and principles of the governance of common pool resources |
7 | Diffusion of Innovations | Policy diffusion and innovation | Venues/states where policy making takes place | Factors in policy diffusion and adoption |
8 | Policy Feedback Theory | Influence of policies on politics and subsequent policy making | System (implicit) | How public policies affect the power of groups, the meaning of citizenship, policy agendas and governance structures – all of which impact future policies |