Framing Policies
Influencing behaviour has always been a central aspect of Public Policy.
By shaping policy more closely around the in-built responses spelt out by the Mnemonic
below, we can potentially become more effective in the way we improve individual well-being
and social welfare.
M
I
essenger
We are heavily influenced by who communicates
information
ncentiveness
Our responses to incentives are shaped by predictable
mental shortcuts such as strongly avoiding losses
N orms
D efaults
S alience
Our attention is drawn to what is novel and seems
P riming
A ffect
C ommitment
E go
We are strongly influenced by what others do
We 'go with the flow' of pre-set options
relevant to us.
Our acts are often influenced by sub-conscious cues.
Our emotional associations can powerfully shape our actions.
We seek to be consistent with our public promises, and
reciprocate acts.
We act in ways that make us feel better about outselves.
Adapted from "The Institute of Government and the Cabinet Of ce (UK)
(Dolan, Hallsworth, Halpern, King & Valaev, 2009)"
Created by: MSF Of ce of the Director of Social Welfare I Dec 2017