What is the focus of the social ecological model?

The correct emphasis of the social ecological model centers on the broader context of societal influences on behavior. This model recognizes that individual behavior cannot be fully understood without considering the multiple layers of influence surrounding it. It integrates various levels such as individual, interpersonal, organizational, community, and societal factors.

By focusing on societal influences, the social ecological model highlights how norms, policies, and cultural factors impact behaviors related to exercise and health. This perspective draws attention to how changes in the environment, community resources, and public policies can lead to healthier behaviors on a population level. Such an understanding is crucial for developing effective interventions that address not just the individual, but also the systems and structures that shape health behaviors.