What is the first step in the Precede phase of the Precede-Proceed model?

In the Precede-Proceed model, the first step in the Precede phase is the social assessment. This phase focuses on understanding the quality of life issues and the social problems that might be affecting the target population. It involves gathering input from the community to ascertain their needs, perceptions, and priorities. This information is crucial as it helps to define the context in which subsequent assessments and interventions will take place. By identifying social conditions and factors that influence health behaviors, practitioners can ensure that their efforts are aligned with the community's actual needs.

The assessments that follow, such as behavioral and environmental assessments, build upon the insights gained from the social assessment, making it a foundational step in the overall framework. Therefore, prioritizing social assessment allows for a deeper understanding of the influences on health and well-being, guiding more effective interventions later in the process.