Connecting Research and Policymaking: Implications for Theory and Practice from the Family Impact Seminars^*

Abstract

This paper addresses a conundrum that merits scholarly attention—why social scientists' ability to generate high quality research has outpaced their ability to disseminate research into the policymaking process. The paper describes Family Impact Seminars, a series of seminars, briefing reports, and follow‐up activities that provide up‐to‐date, solution‐oriented information to state policymakers. In support of the proposed “three‐communities” theory, the utilization of research in policymaking appears to depend upon several pragmatic practices and procedures, ten which are detailed in the paper.