Bridging the Gap: From Behavioural Economic Insights to Policy and Implementation Practices. An interview-based study regarding the professional norms and the translation process of behavioural insights in policy and policy implementation

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2024-07-09

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en

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This research investigates professional norms related to applying behavioural insights (BI) in policy development and implementation within the Dutch national government. Moreover it is investigated how the professional norm influences the translation process of BI into policy and policy implementation. Understanding and improving these norms can bridge the gap between behavioural research and effective policy execution, leading to more impactful governmental policies. A qualitative methodology is used, gathering in-depth insights from policymakers and implementors (employees), and behavioural advisors through semi-structured interviews. This approach explores first- and second-order beliefs and their impact on the interaction and collaboration between advisors and employees and translation of BI into policy and implementation. While first-order normative beliefs support BI's implementation in policy development, first-order empirical and second-order beliefs are less optimistic due to perceived barriers. Challenges include identifying behaviourally related issues, initiating contact, and differing knowledge and perspectives between employees and advisors. Translating BI into practical applications is difficult due to employees' lack of expertise and time, and the perceived impracticality of some BI. Behavioural advisors often handle this translation, but effective implementation requires collaboration with employees. Future research should address the limitations of this study and experiment with proposed solutions.

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Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen