Psychology’s potential to address systemic social challenges ranging from mental health crises to poverty-driven inequities, is enormous. Yet, its integration into public policy remains fragmented in contexts where it could be crucial. Translational psychology is an effective theoretical foundation, and policy briefs offer a powerful tool to bridge this theory-praxis gap, translating psychological insights into actionable strategies for policymakers and other stakeholders. Here I try to explain why, and how to approach policy briefs focusing on topics of importance, drawing on my experience from a low- and middle-income country’s context.

Psychology can provide evidence-based frameworks to tackle several developmental issues like stigma, trauma, and behavioural barriers to adoption of policies and programmes. The establishment of ‘nudge’ units by governments across the globe provide testimony that policymakers are acknowledging the role of behavioural interventions. However, psychology’s potential contributions extend beyond nudges. Integrating psychological research and insights into policy can dismantle structural inequities and also help build context-specific alternatives to the west-centric one-size-fits-all models of development. For example, trauma-informed policies can support communities affected by conflict or climate disasters, and evidence-based interventions could reduce crime rates and recidivism. 

In low- and middle-income countries, state investment in psychology and mental health research is often minimal owing to resource constraints and competing demands. It is in such contexts that policy briefs can act as a tool for informed advocacy to influence policy. Carefully crafted policy briefs - succinct, persuasive, and tailored to demonstrate how psychological insights align with broader development goals – are to be considered as part of the efforts to make psychology relevant to the lives of people. 

While drafting policy briefs, there are some strategies that could help one make the document persuasive and relevant. One prerequisite is to gather knowledge beyond once area of specialization in psychology. An understanding of the developmental needs of the surroundings and the gaps in policy and implementation is crucial. Concepts such as equity and inclusion should act as the guiding principles for developing policy briefs, while local developmental needs could provide concrete themes around which the policy can be built. Potential topics can be found in developmental discourses, legislative discussions, and even news reports. Having collaborators from across disciplines can also help to broaden the vision. The brief has to carry an audience-centric language and concrete evidence-based recommendations 

The recommendations made in policy briefs need to adhere to some framework, such as the APEASE (Acceptable to stakeholders, Practicable, Effective, Affordable, having minimal Side effects, and advancing Equity). Engagement with local communities and policymakers are crucial factors that could ensure that policy briefs meet these criteria. Avoiding jargon is also of utmost importance. One trick to ensure comprehension and accessibility is to have someone who is a non-expert read through a draft and offer their honest feedback.

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