Abstract

CABRERA A, Gustavo Alonso. Theories and theoretical models found in National School of Public Health Journal, University of Antioquia, 2000-2004. Rev. Fac. Nac. Salud Pública [online]. 2005, vol.23, n.2, pp.78-82. ISSN 0120-386X.

Objective: to identify the theories and theoretical models used in the articles published by National School of Public Health Journal of the University of Antioquia, during the period 2000-2004. Methods: in January of 2005 all issues published from 2000 to 2004 were analyzed. A researcher with experience in theories and models analyzed all articles in every issue using a questionnaire to identify theoretical references. Results: eleven issues of the journal were revised, ten of periodical publication and one special issue. 103 articles were identified: 46 research studies, 35 revisions of specific topics and 22 opinion articles, different topics were identified such as health system, epidemiology, and psychological and social aspects. Although 35 (34%) of the articles involved 50 theories and models as theoretical framework, only 11 (10%) showed an appropriate methodological and scientific use of them according to adopted criteria. Conclusions: there was a limited use of theories and models in the articles published in the Journal during 2000-2004; there was also a low rigor in using this theories and models to focus the theme, methodology and analysis of the studied topic.

Keywords : Theory; models; public health.