Exploring the mechanisms of capabilities among long-term unemployed Finns

Abstract Background Capability Approach has the potential to enhance public health promotion by emphasizing the importance of investing in capabilities (potential opportunities) to build fair and healthy societies and sustainable wellbeing. However, evidence regarding the mechanisms of action within the context of capabilities is scarce. This study aims to examine these mechanisms using intervention data within a quasi-experimental research design. Methods The data (N = 162) consists of Finnish long-term unemployed persons aged 20-64 years collected with a structured questionnaire as part of the PROMEQ project. Baseline data was collected before the intervention (i.e. multisectoral employment service) in 2016 and follow up data was collected six months after the intervention in 2018. The study group includes an experimental group (n = 84), and a control group (n = 78). To analyze changes in capabilities along with these potential key factors, we will employ Generalised Estimating Equations (GEE) modeling. Results Based on tentative analysis, the following variables (potential key factors) will be tested further with GEE modeling along with capabilities: coping (ρ = .65), self-esteem (ρ = .62) optimism (ρ = .58), faith achievement (ρ = .56), safety (ρ = .46), loneliness (ρ = .43), dignity (ρ = .43) and trust (0.29). Conclusions Strengthening the evidence base of the potential mechanisms of capabilities in practice may enable public health initiatives to develop more effective health promotion strategies among unemployed and other disadvantaged groups. Key messages • Potential of Capability Approach in public health is emerging, but the empirical evidence of the mechanisms of capabilities is unexplored. • The results will deepen our understanding of capabilities enabling more effective public health promotion, fairer societies and sustainable wellbeing.