Using the guidelines for writing a rationale presented in Chapter 2, develop a rationale for a program to address your health problem (The effect of secondhand smoke in adolescents) in your county (Durham County, NC).
Remember the purpose of a rationale is to gain the support of decision-makers, the people who can give you the go-ahead to begin the formal planning process for your program.
Rationale should include the following:
Title
Problem: The health problem is identified in global terms and backed up with appropriate international, national, or state data. Economic costs of the problem are included when possible
The problem narrowed: The health problem is narrowed down to the proposed target population. Why the problem should be addressed is clearly stated. Appropriate county data are used to support your statements
Solution: An evidenced based solution to the problem is clearly stated. A name, purpose, and general overview of the program are given AND your “best guess” of what will work for your program.
Value and benefits: The value and benefits of the program are identified.
Reasons for success: Reasons why the program will be successful are provided.
References: The references used in preparing the rationale are cited correctly on a separate page. (2) Should be written in APA format
