An Empirical Evaluation of a Model of Knowledge Utilization

Long time lags between development and use of scientific innovations have resulted in much theorizing about the process of knowledge utilization. However. there is little empirical evidence for the validity of these theories. The present research is a retrospective investigation of the relationships between eight theoretical factors of knowledge utiliza tion (Davis, 1971) and whether or not treatment innovations had been implemented in mental health agencies following consultation. Significant relatioships are found for four factors. Agencies adopting the procedures report values and philosophies that are more similar to the values and philosophies embodied in the innovation; they report more accurate information and knowledge about the new procedures and how to implement them; they report a stronger need for change; and they report that they had anticipated more benefit prior to adopting the procedures than did nonusers.

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