What is one of the strategies to change community design?

Changing consequences is a powerful strategy for influencing community design because it creates a direct impact on behavior by altering the outcomes associated with particular actions. When consequences are modified, individuals and communities are incentivized to change their behaviors based on the new expectations established by these consequences.

For example, if a community implements policies that provide positive reinforcement for engaging in healthy activities, such as offering rewards for participating in local sports or wellness programs, it can lead to an increase in participation and a shift in community norms regarding health and wellness.

This strategy works within the framework of prevention by making desired behaviors more attractive and rewarding, while potentially discouraging negative behaviors through the introduction of negative consequences or barriers. Therefore, altering the consequences tied to community design effectively supports a healthier environment and promotes positive community interactions and events.

In contrast, simply enhancing skills or increasing costs for community events may not lead to an effective or sustainable change in community design. Reducing resources available to youth could create more significant barriers and discourage engagement, which is contrary to promoting a supportive and effective community structure.