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A framework for strengthening realist synthesis and evaluation by integrating behavioural science

Justin Aunger & Robert Aunger

Evaluation2026https://doi.org/10.1177/13563890251409726article
AJG 2ABDC B
Weight
0.50

Abstract

Understanding the mechanisms and contexts that drive the success of complex health interventions remains a challenge. Realist methods, grounded in scientific realism, generate context-sensitive programme theories to explain how, why and for whom interventions work, but these theories often lack structured operationalisation to inform comparison or intervention design. Behavioural science, by contrast, systematically identifies and modifies behaviour change mechanisms using theory-driven frameworks, but has been criticised for insufficiently considering context. Integrating these may enhance the precision, standardisation and applicability of realist programme theories. This novel approach leverages behavioural science concepts such as behaviour change techniques and mechanisms of action to clarify mechanisms, and uses the idea of behavioural settings to explicate context. Together, this establishes a common language for programme theory formulation, making them more structured, testable and transferable. A five-step framework for integration is proposed for realist studies, facilitating more precise and transferable theories that support intervention design and policy translation.

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https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1177/13563890251409726

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@article{justin2026,
  title        = {{A framework for strengthening realist synthesis and evaluation by integrating behavioural science}},
  author       = {Justin Aunger & Robert Aunger},
  journal      = {Evaluation},
  year         = {2026},
  doi          = {https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1177/13563890251409726},
}

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A framework for strengthening realist synthesis and evaluation by integrating behavioural science

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Evidence weight

0.50

Balanced mode · F 0.40 / M 0.15 / V 0.05 / R 0.40

F · citation impact0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20
M · momentum0.50 × 0.15 = 0.07
V · venue signal0.50 × 0.05 = 0.03
R · text relevance †0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20

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