ABSTRACT
Psychologists' involvement in government policy-making 1 has been more than just a recent occurrence. Since the post World War II era, psychologists, as well as other types of social scientists, have held government positions that usually involve generating data, compiling facts, monitoring programs, and evaluating results (Horowitz, 1979). They also have been involved in the policy-making arena, offering expert advice on substantive issues such as desegregation or violence on television (see Hennigan, Flay, & Cook, 1980; see also DeLeon, 1977; Kiesler, 1980; Saks, 1978; Silverman, 1980; and Soebel, 1979 for other examples). They have not, however, often been involved in the study and analysis of policy-making as a process in any major way. Nevertheless, psychological science may be able to make major contributions to this latter topic.
