Certified Prevention Professional (CPP) Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT one of the six characteristics of the Public Health Approach?

1. Promotion and prevention

2. Risk and protective factors

3. Individual-based strategy

4. Population based

The correct answer is: Individual-based strategy

The correct answer highlights an important aspect of the Public Health Approach. This method focuses on population-based strategies rather than solely on individual interventions. By emphasizing collective efforts to promote health and prevent disease, the Public Health Approach aims to address health issues at a broader level, recognizing that individual behavior is influenced by societal factors, environmental contexts, and community resources. The characteristics of promotion and prevention, risk and protective factors, and a population-based strategy reflect the framework's commitment to improving health outcomes through community engagement and policy initiatives. In contrast, an individual-based strategy may overlook these broader influences, limiting the effectiveness of public health initiatives. Consequently, an approach that centers on individuals often fails to leverage the potential of systemic changes to yield impactful health improvements for entire populations.