Abstract

We propose a triple test to evaluate the usefulness of behavioral economics models for public health policy. Test 1 is whether the model provides reasonably new insights. Test 2 is on whether these have been properly applied to policy settings. Test 3 is whether they are corroborated by evidence. Where a test is not passed, this may point to directions for needed further research. We exemplify by considering the cases of social interactions models, self-control models and, in relation to health message framing, prospect theory; out of these, only a correctly applied prospect theory fully passes the tests at present.

Highlights

  • Behavioral economics (BE) has been seen as holding great promise in a range of policy applications, including that of improving health outcomes (Frank 2004; Zimmerman 2009; Loewenstein et al 2007, 2012; Barberis 2013)

  • We propose a triple test for whether a behavioral economic model is relevant for public health policy: Test 1: the model has to yield specific predictions relative to standard economic models or established psychological theories in terms of individual behaviors or reaction to incentives; Test 2: the model has to provide specific predictions regarding specific public health policies; Test 3: the model has to be appropriately validated by empirical evidence

  • We have proposed a triple test to evaluate the usefulness of BE models for public health policy

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Summary

Introduction

Behavioral economics (BE) has been seen as holding great promise in a range of policy applications, including that of improving health outcomes (Frank 2004; Zimmerman 2009; Loewenstein et al 2007, 2012; Barberis 2013). This promise has been recognized by policy- makers across a range of countries, including France (Ouillier and Sauneron 2010), the United States (Lott 2013) and the United Kingdom (Dolan et al 2010).

A conceptual background
Social interactions models and test 1
Combining motivations from social interactions models
Test 2: policy implications
Test 3: empirical evidence
Summary
Self-control devices models and Test 1
An illustrative model and Test 2
Test 3
The standard treatment of prospect theory and test 1
Test 2
Test 3: considering empirical evidence on health message framing
Findings
Conclusions
Full Text
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