2026/03/19 by Laura Miller-Graff, Liyam Eloul · 1 voice
Health Professions · Psychology · #Health and Conflict Studies #Migration, Health and Trauma #Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Research
paper · pdf · doi:10.1037/pac0000832
openalex publication_date 2026/03/19 · openalex created_date 2026/03/20 · openalex updated_date 2026/06/19
Recently released reports on the integration of mental health and psychosocial support and peacebuilding by both the United Nations Development Programme and the Inter-agency Standing Committee provide useful analyses of the state of the field and recommended practices.This review provides a comparative analysis of the two documents, including shared areas of emphasis and limitations.Domains of shared focus are developing authentic and trusting cross-sectoral relationships, the importance of early action and long-term engagement, and beneficence.A key challenge is the lack of available theories of change and related empirical evidence to guide important questions about implementation.We recommend an integrative theoretical framework drawing on complexity theory, social ecological theory, and liberation psychology as useful foundational perspectives for articulating more specific programmatic theories of change.We also describe a series of next steps for researchers, practitioners, educators, donors, and policymakers in advancing the integration of mental health and psychosocial support and peacebuilding. Public Significance StatementRecent guidance issued by major international organizations on the intersection of psychosocial care and peacebuilding provides a comprehensive overview of the state of the field, with well-developed recommendations for practitioners, researchers, policymakers, and donors.Yet, theoretical work and empirical research on integration is critically needed; this article provides a comprehensive analysis of these documents and charts next steps to advance work in this area.