Behavior Change Model for Complex Social Problems

With the Covid-19 pandemic, a sudden and game-changing crisis, it has become undeniable that providing a solution to the crisis requires a transdisciplinary study using different perspectives. 

In their previous articles, Dr. Selenga Gürmen and Prof.Dr. Pınar Mengüç constructed society as a hierarchical structure, with interactions between hierarchies, and as a functional system that is open to intervention through various modes. In the cultural context mentioned in the model, the reaction to the situation is similar to the reaction of the society's past. 

According to the model, the system's structure includes hierarchy and boundaries. Leadership corresponds to changing actors, that is, in the current case, scientific committees. At this point, a similarity has been established between transformational leadership and knowledgeable and effective parents who set a positive example and act as role models. The model considers emotion, thought, and behavior modes as control modes. 

In “the emotion mode”, it is emphasized that anxiety should be neither too high nor too low. In order to take precautions, the importance of believing that the precautions will work was mentioned. In “the thought mode”, the essential role of defining the problem as a problem in changing behavior was mentioned. Responsibility for change is another issue mentioned. 

“The behavior mode” emphasizes what people understand rather than what is told to them. The article also focuses on how, by whom, and to what extent these modes can be regulated in society. 

At this point, the presence of transformative and respected leaders is of great importance. Solutions should be addressed to all segments of society, following a unifying path rather than a divisive one. It is essential that leaders convey information to society effectively and consistently and draw attention to emotion, thought, and behavior patterns in the light of science.