Presentation VERLICHT research and Qualitative Network Approach (QNA) - Department Day (Department of Theory, Methodology, and Statistics of the Faculty of Psychology

Description

VERLICHT is a monitoring project in Heerlen-Noord. We examine which interventions are used and how we assume they work. By establishing an effective monitoring system, we aim to exponentially increase our knowledge in the coming years and decades about which combinations of interventions are most effective. This helps us improve our strategies and get closer to achieving our goal: equal opportunities for everyone in Heerlen-Noord!

How do we monitor?

- For questions that can be answered using existing scientific literature, we conduct living systematic reviews to create an up-to-date scientific database.
- To understand the local context in Heerlen-Noord, we conduct interviews. The data is coded using the Qualitative Network Approach (QNA), implemented in the Reproducible Open Coding Kit (ROCK)—a human- and machine-readable standard for coded qualitative data. QNA network coding identifies how interviewees believe an intervention works.

Our focus is on behavior change, using Intervention Mapping (IM)—a systematic method for developing, implementing, and evaluating interventions. IM consists of six steps, integrating scientific knowledge and behavior change theories to design effective interventions. Key elements include identifying problems, setting behavioral objectives, and developing strategies to influence behavior.

To visualize behavior change, we use the Acyclic Behavior Change Diagram (ABCD) within the IM method. ABCD provides visual representations of causal relationships between determinants and behavior change. While IM helps select relevant determinants and strategies, ABCD illustrates these determinants and their causal links, enabling more targeted and effective interventions.

Period	20 Feb 2025
Degree of Recognition	International