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Navigating complexity: a pattern language approach for behavioral science in public policy

K. Stenger,R. Schmidt

Published 2025 in Behavioural Public Policy

ABSTRACT

When aiming to change behavior, policymakers confront the challenge of implementing behavioral interventions across contexts. However, the effectiveness of behavioral solutions often hinges on context, posing a significant hurdle to scaling interventions. This study explores the application of a behavioral pattern language approach as a means to enhance intervention efficacy and support policymakers and practitioners who seek to solve problems at scales that cross diverse contexts. The study demonstrates how a pattern language can inform contextually aware solutions, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among stakeholders. Additionally, the research finds practitioners deploy multiple solutions within complex systems to achieve more difficult behavioral change goals. Despite challenges related to replicability and evolving methodologies, the findings suggest that pattern languages offer a promising avenue for systematically generating and disseminating behavioral insights. This research contributes to advancing applied behavioral science by providing a structured approach for collaborative policymaking and research endeavors that are contextually relevant and effective.

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