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Integrating behavioural insights in the policy process: on chances and hurdles identified by policy-makers and behavioural scientists

Author

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  • Florian Spitzer

    (Institute for Advanced Studies (IHS), Research Group Social Sustainable Transformation)

  • Kira Abstiens

    (Institute for Advanced Studies (IHS), Research Group Social Sustainable Transformation)

  • Sophie Karmasin

    (Austrian Center for Psychotherapy and Psychology (ÖZP))

Abstract

This study investigates how behavioural insights are incorporated by policy-makers when designing policy measures. We conducted 81 in-depth interviews with both behavioural insights experts from governments, public administration, public organizations and universities, as well as with policy-makers in Austria interested in applying behavioural insights to their work. Our analysis highlights potential benefits of applying behavioural insights to public policy and discusses ethical considerations, practical challenges and broader hurdles within the public sector, limitations of the approach and methodological concerns. For each of these challenges, we present potential solutions to facilitate the effective integration of behavioural interventions and randomized controlled trials into public policy-making.

Suggested Citation

  • Florian Spitzer & Kira Abstiens & Sophie Karmasin, 2025. "Integrating behavioural insights in the policy process: on chances and hurdles identified by policy-makers and behavioural scientists," Mind & Society: Cognitive Studies in Economics and Social Sciences, Springer;Fondazione Rosselli, vol. 24(2), pages 621-663, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:minsoc:v:24:y:2025:i:2:d:10.1007_s11299-025-00333-0
    DOI: 10.1007/s11299-025-00333-0
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