BEAR Hub’s Behavioral Science Process

Behavioral science implementers create numerous frameworks and processes for applying behavioral insights to shift behavior. We adapt our approach from a landmark review paper identifying the primary overlapping steps among these frameworks (Steg and Vlek, 2009).  

As part of our technical assistance, we walk participants through these steps for their specific program. We also explain the steps here so that you can apply them on your own if you wish. 

Our Process

1

Identify a specific behavior to change

What key action do you want to change?

We start by zeroing in on the precise behavior that will yield the greatest impact. Whether it’s increasing program participation, reducing energy consumption, or boosting community engagement, we focus on the tangible actions that matter most.

2

Identify barriers to, and benefits of, the behavior for the target audience

Why aren’t people already doing it? What motivates them?

Why aren’t people already taking this action? What would make it easier or more appealing? We analyze the psychological, social, and practical factors that influence behavior, from convenience to cost to social norms.

3

Brainstorm, prioritize, and select behavior change strategies to test

Which interventions are the most feasible and impactful?

Using insights from behavioral science, we generate potential interventions—such as incentive structures, social proof messaging, or simplifying decision-making. We then prioritize based on feasibility and expected impact.

4

Implement the behavior change strategies

How can we pilot and refine the approach?

With a clear plan in place, we roll out the selected interventions, whether it’s through communication campaigns, program design tweaks, or real-world pilot programs.

5

Evaluate the program to iterate and improve

What worked? How can we scale the impact?

Behavior change isn’t a one-time effort. We suggest which data to collect, methods to measure outcomes, and ways to refine strategies based on what works best. We do not do the evaluation ourselves but will make recommendations for getting it done right.

Our Process

1

Identify a specific
 behavior to change

What key action do you want to change?

We start by zeroing in on the precise behavior that will yield the greatest impact. Whether it’s increasing program participation, reducing energy consumption, or boosting community engagement, we focus on the tangible actions that matter most.

2

Identify barriers to, and benefits of, the behavior for the target audience

Why aren’t people already doing it? What motivates them?

Why aren’t people already taking this action? What would make it easier or more appealing? We analyze the psychological, social, and practical factors that influence behavior, from convenience to cost to social norms.

3

Brainstorm, prioritize, and select behavior change strategies to test

Which interventions are the most feasible and impactful?

Using insights from behavioral science, we generate potential interventions—such as incentive structures, social proof messaging, or simplifying decision-making. We then prioritize based on feasibility and expected impact.

4

Implement the behavior change strategies

How can we pilot and refine the approach?

With a clear plan in place, we roll out the selected interventions, whether it’s through communication campaigns, program design tweaks, or real-world pilot programs.

5

Evaluate the program to iterate and improve

What worked? How can we scale the impact?

Behavior change isn’t a one-time effort. We suggest which data to collect, methods to measure outcomes, and ways to refine strategies based on what works best. We do not do the evaluation ourselves but will make recommendations for getting it done right.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Behavioral Science Frameworks

Community-Based Social Marketing

Organization
McKenzie-Mohr & Associates

Description
A framework based on assessing barriers and benefits before implementing a behavioral strategy.

EAST Framework

Organization
Behavioral Insight Team (BIT)

Description
A simple framework for understanding principles that make behavioral interventions effective.

Behavior-Centered Design (BCD)

Organization
Rare

Description
A framework that combines behavioral science and design thinking to create innovation solutions for environmental challenges.

DRIVE

Organization
Sussman, Qin Tan, Kormos

Description
An applied behavioral science framework specifically adapted to transportation-based challenges.

DO-RITE

Organization
E Scott Geller

Description
Possibly the first framework for applying behavioral science theories to real-world challenges.

Resource Hubs and External Trainings

Rare’s Behavior Change Training

Organization
Rare

Description
A framework based on assessing barriers and benefits before implementing a behavioral strategy.

Tools of Change

Organization
Jay Kassirer

Description
Features an “Environment” section with case studies and recent research reports across various environmental sectors.

Behavioral Evidence Hub

Organization
Ideas42

Description
Over 100 case studies applying behavioral science for social and environmental good (relevant studies in the “Environment” category).

CBSM Repository

Organization
McKenzie-Mohr & Associates

Description
McKenzie-Mohr’s site offers a rich repository of case studies on topics including energy and sustainability.

Transportation DM Encyclopedia

Organization
Victoria Transportation Policy Institute

Description
The Victoria Transportation Policy Institute offers strategies for encouraging efficient transportation use.

Research and Reference Materials

Making Shift Happen

Authors
Van Leuvan, Highleyman, Fujita, Kellerman

Description
Reference guide and methodological framework for uncovering behavioral determinants and applying behavioral science to achieve pro-environmental behavior change.

Behavioural Energy Policy Tookit

Organization
Users TCP

Description
Case studies and insights on optimizing energy use through behavioral strategies.

The Potential of Behavioural Interventions for Optimising Energy Use at Home

Organization
IEA (International Energy Agency)

Description
White paper highlighting impactful behavioral strategies for energy efficiency.

Partner with us

We’re here to help you apply behavioral science to your energy programs and challenges.   

Consider applying for our no-cost ongoing technical assistance program, where you can receive 4-6 months of: 

  • behavioral insights to enhance your programs
  • implementation support
  • collaboration on innovative solutions and pilot projects