Academic Writing

The imaginary intervention: a conceptual framework for applied imagination in public health (Pressman, et al. 2026)

This conceptual framework article explores how public health might extend its focus beyond structural conditions like income, housing, and access to care to also consider the cultural norms that shape how people see themselves, their choices, and their futures. These internalized norms can erode well-being by narrowing perceived possibilities, suppressing vitality, and increasing stress. We propose two complementary capacities for addressing these normative harms: cultural reflexivity and applied imagination.

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