The Engagement Model of Person-Environment Interaction

Abstract

This article focuses on growth-promoting aspects in the environment, and the authors propose a strength-based, dynamic model of person-environment interaction. The authors begin by briefly discussing the typical recognition of contextual variables in models that rely on the concept of person-environment fit. This is followed by a review of recent approaches to incorporating positive environmental factors in conceptualizations of human functioning. These approaches lead to an alternative model of personenvironment interaction in which the engagement construct (i.e., the quality of a personenvironment relationship determined by the extent to which negotiation, participation, and evaluation processes occur during the interaction) replaces the static notion of fit. Finally, the authors outline recommendations for overcoming environmental neglect in research, practice, and training.

Outreach programmes for health improvement of Traveller Communities: a synthesis of evidence

“…It was developed from a combination of synthesising the Traveller specific theories exposed thus far: Neufeld's model of engagement 190 insight and judgement of the reviewing team. We have selected those theories which, put together, seem to have the widest explanatory scope, seeking to explain the general rather than every specific instance.…”

“…'By whom' highlights the importance of trust. 'How' hinted at the potential of using a model of engagement, such as that developed by Neufeld,190 in order to explain how outreach workers may approach the Community. 'What for' highlighted three levels of individual engagement, which can be considered as intermediate outcomes.…”

“…Neufeld's 190 work offers insight into the processes through which outreach workers may approach the Community (Figure 17). This engagement model accounts for a dynamic relationship between a person and their environment, conceptualised as encompassing a set of both physical and social variables.…”

“…190 We have shown above how the outcomes from the studies included can be mapped on a three-point scale of participation/engagement.…”

“…Our analysis has led us to use three models found in existing literature in a novel way, which, combined, offer maximal explanatory potential. 185,190,200 Social networks and health Social networks have the potential to influence individuals' behaviours and attitudes by shaping the flow of resources which determine access to opportunities and constraints on behaviour. Berkman and Glass 183 developed a conceptual model of the causal pathways by which social networks impact on health outcomes.…”