The contribution of Psychology and Sociology to Health Promotion in Chile

Abstract

The main purpose of this article is to highlight the contribution of psychology and sociology in the development of health promotion, as a way of looking into what happens with programmes aiming at the improvement of population health in Chile. Sociology and psychology approach both the theory and practice y health promotion. Psychology has contributed with knowledge in the field of individual behavior. On the other hand, Sociology has emphasized the perspective of social determinants and material conditions related to health. The author proposes that the integration of these perspectives is essential to reduce inequalities and to achieve the enhancement of population health. The basis for this integration is to understand that neither view point is in itself able to explain human complexities. This implies that both the generation of enabling environments and individual empowerment is essential for healthy behaviour. Legislation has established itself as a powerful tool. However, it does not guarantee individual change, and therefore its implementation should also consider tools that will produce and strengthen behavioural change.