Certified Prevention Professional (CPP) Practice Exam

Which environment is typically least considered in the Ecological Model?

1. School

2. Neighborhood

3. Workplace

4. Family

The correct answer is: Workplace

The workplace is typically the environment least considered in the Ecological Model when discussing factors affecting individual behavior and health. The Ecological Model emphasizes the interplay between individual, interpersonal, community, and societal factors, often prioritizing contexts such as family dynamics, neighborhood influences, and educational settings. While the workplace does play a significant role in shaping behaviors, it is often not the primary focus in many public health discussions compared to the strong impact of family and community settings. Family environments are fundamental for early development and socialization, while neighborhoods can directly affect access to resources and support systems. Schools often serve as critical contexts for youth engagement and education. In contrast, workplace settings are sometimes analyzed more in the context of occupational health rather than as a foundational ecological layer influencing broader health behaviors. This contextual background helps clarify why the workplace is often less emphasized in discussions about the Ecological Model.