Complexity Theory in Health Promotion Research: Four Essential Principles Based on Niklas Luhmann’s Systems Theory

Dan Grabowski (), Jens Aagaard-Hansen, Morten Hulvej Rod and Bjarne Bruun Jensen
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Dan Grabowski: Health Promotion Research, Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Borgmester Ib Juuls Vej 83, 2730 Herlev, Denmark
Jens Aagaard-Hansen: Health Promotion Research, Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Borgmester Ib Juuls Vej 83, 2730 Herlev, Denmark
Morten Hulvej Rod: National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Studiestræde 6, 1455 København, Denmark
Bjarne Bruun Jensen: Health Promotion Research, Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Borgmester Ib Juuls Vej 83, 2730 Herlev, Denmark

Societies, 2023, vol. 13, issue 12, 1-12

Abstract: Complexity-oriented approaches built on complexity theories are not widely used in health promotion research. The field of health promotion faces significant difficulties in explaining and addressing unforeseen impacts and side effects due to the widespread tendency to implement health promotion initiatives that are considered best practices. It is important to theoretically embrace the fact that we operate in a complex world and that we, therefore, need to redefine our approaches by acknowledging the complexities involved in promoting health. In this theoretical paper, we propose a set of four complexity-oriented principles for health promotion research based on Niklas Luhmann’s systems theory: (1) direct transfer of health knowledge and health competencies is impossible; (2) all individuals and social entities are fundamentally different from each other; (3) the individual’s sense of health-related meaning determines what is deemed relevant; and (4) it is essential for communication to meet expectations if it is to be observed. The set of principles presented in this article can be applied to research projects intended to explore and address challenges related to complexity in health promotion settings. It can be used as a lens through which to observe health promotion practice. If health promotion research wants to address the field that we have defined for ourselves as extremely complex and unaddressed by anyone else, we need to embrace approaches that actually do this—by providing health promotion research with a formal framework appropriate to its existing main purposes and concerns.

Keywords: complexity; sociology; health promotion; systems theory; research principles (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: A13 A14 P P0 P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 Z1 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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