Social Construction of Target Populations: A Theoretical Framework for Understanding Policy Approaches to Perinatal Illicit Substance Screening

Norlissa M. Cooper, Audrey Lyndon, Monica R. McLemore, Ifeyinwa V. Asiodu

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Perinatal illicit substance use is a nursing and public health issue. Current screening policies have significant consequences for birthing individuals and their families. Racial disparities exist in spite of targeted and universal screening policies and practices. Thus, new theoretical approaches are needed to investigate perinatal illicit substance use screening in hospital settings. The purpose of this analysis is to evaluate the social construction of target populations theory in the context of perinatal illicit substance use screening. Using the theoretical insights of this theory to interrogate the approaches taken by policy makers to address perinatal illicit substance use and screening provides the contextual framework needed to understand why specific policy tools were selected when designing public policy to address these issues. The analysis and evaluation of this theory was conducted using the theory description and critical reflection model.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)56-66
Number of pages11
JournalPolicy, Politics, and Nursing Practice
Volume23
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 2022

Keywords

  • perinatal substance use
  • public health
  • public policy
  • social construction
  • social norms

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Leadership and Management
  • Issues, ethics and legal aspects

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