Family Impact Institute Using Research to Build Better Public Policy for Families

Skill Building – Translating Research into Practice

Suggested readings on how professionals can write research-based reports for policymakers, policy implementers and practitioners.

Bogenschneider, K., Olson, J. R., Linney, K. D., & Mills, J. (2000). Connecting research and policymaking: Implications for theory and practice from the Family Impact Seminars. Family Relations, 49, 327-339.

Deloria, D., & Brookins, G. K. (1982). The evaluation report: A weak link to policy, In J. R. Travers & R. J. Light (Eds.), Learning from experience: Evaluating early childhood demonstration programs (pp. 254-271). Washington DC: National Academy Press.

Doherty, W. J. (2000). Family science and family citizenship: Toward a model of community partnership with families. Family Relations, 49, 319-325.

Jefferys, M., Troy, K., Slawik, N., & Lightfoot, E. (2007). Issues in bridging the divide between policymakers and researchers. Saint Paul, MN: University of Minnesota.

Myers-Walls, J. A. (2000). An odd couple with promise: Researchers and practitioners in evaluations settings. Family Relations, 49, 341-347.

Olson, D. H. L. (1976). Bridging research, theory, and application: The triple threat in science. In Cromwell & D. H. L. Olson (Eds.), Treating Relationships (pp.565-579). Lake Mills IA: Graphic Publications.

Rist, R. C. (1994). Influencing the policy process with qualitative research. In N. Denzin & Y. Lincoln (Eds.), Handbook of qualitative research (pp.545-558). Thousand Oaks CA: Sage.

Scott, K. G., Mason, C. A., & Chapman, D. A. (1999). The use of epidemiological methodology as a means of influencing public policy. Child Development, 70, 1263-1272.

Shonkoff, J. P. (2000). Science policy and practice: Three cultures in search of a shared mission. Child Development, 71, 181-187.

Small, S. A. (1995). Action-oriented research: Models and methods. Journal of Marriage and Family, 57, 941-955.

Smith, J. A. (1991). The idea brokers: Think tanks and the rise of the new policy elite. New York: The Free Press.